Lower back pain holding you back? Dr. Harry Grant sees it every day, from teachers and tradies to office workers. In this blog, he explains the real causes of lower back pain and how chiropractic care offers a gentle, effective path to recovery
Find out when to seek help, what to expect, and how a few small changes can make a big difference.
Index
Introduction
Lower back pain is one of the most common reasons people seek chiropractic care in Perth. Whether you’re sitting at a desk all day or leading an active lifestyle, back pain can disrupt your routine and affect your quality of life. As a chiropractor, I see this daily—and the good news is, you don’t have to live with it. Let’s walk through what causes it, how chiropractic can help, and what you can expect from your first visit.
Why does my lower back hurt? Common causes explained
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but some of the most common causes I see include:
- Poor posture from prolonged sitting or screen time
- Spinal dysfunction
- Muscular imbalances or weakness
- Herniated or bulging discs
- Repetitive strain injuries
- Stress, which often leads to muscle tension
Identifying the root cause is key to lasting relief, which is why we take the time to assess not just your symptoms but your lifestyle and movement habits.
How can spinal dysfunction contribute to lower back pain?
Your spine is designed to move, support your body, and protect your nervous system. When one or more vertebrae are not functioning properly, it can place pressure on nearby nerves, limit mobility, and cause inflammation, leading to pain, stiffness and decreased mobility and function.
Through chiropractic adjustments, we gently restore function to your spine, reduce tension, and allow your body to begin the healing process naturally.
I often see patients in their 30s and 40s, especially those in teaching or desk-based roles, who come in with persistent lower back stiffness and dull pain, often made worse by long days on their feet or seated at work.
In these cases, treatment commonly involves addressing spinal alignment, improving posture awareness, and incorporating exercises to support daily movement demands. Many people in this group report reduced discomfort and improved energy levels after a few targeted sessions.
The role of posture in chronic lower back issues
It’s no surprise that office workers and remote professionals in Perth often complain of persistent back pain. Why? Because posture matters.
Sitting for long hours, especially with poor ergonomics, compresses the spine and overworks key muscles. Over time, this leads to:
- Increased pressure on discs
- Shortened hip flexors
- Weakened core and gluteal muscles
- Forward head posture and rounded shoulders
The result? Chronic lower back discomfort.
A big part of chiropractic care is helping patients correct these patterns through movement education, posture training, and at-home exercises.
When should you see a chiropractor for lower back pain?
If you’re wondering whether it’s time to get help, here are some signs to look out for:
- Pain that lasts more than a few days
- Discomfort that interferes with sleep or daily activities
- Pain that radiates to the hips, legs or feet
- Stiffness or loss of mobility
- Recurring or worsening episodes
Even if your pain is mild, early intervention can prevent long-term issues and help you recover faster.
Chiropractic vs. physio: What’s best for lower back pain?
Both chiropractors and physiotherapists are trained to treat musculoskeletal conditions, but their approach differs:
- Chiropractors focus on spinal function, joint function, and nervous system health using adjustments and manual techniques.
- Physiotherapists often use rehabilitation exercises, soft tissue work, and modalities like ultrasound.
In many cases, the best results come from a collaborative approach. At our clinic, we often work alongside physios to provide integrated care for our patients. Learn more about our Burswood clinic here.
What to expect at your first chiro visit for back pain?
Your first appointment is all about understanding your body. Here’s what we typically do:
- Initial consultation – We discuss your symptoms, medical history, and lifestyle.
- Postural and movement assessment – We evaluate how your body moves and where there may be restrictions.
- Spinal joint play and orthopaedic tests – To pinpoint the root cause of your discomfort.
- Personalised care plan – Based on your needs and goals, including adjustments, exercises, and education.
Most patients start feeling better within just a few sessions but lasting improvement comes with consistency.
Not sure where to start? Book a 15-minute complimentary health assessment with our team. It’s a relaxed, no-pressure way to understand your options and see how we can support your recovery.
Lower back pain in office workers and how chiropractic helps?
Perth’s growing desk-based workforce is at high risk of lower back problems. I often see patients in their 30s–50s suffering from aches caused by long hours at a computer.
Chiropractic care can:
- Relieve tension and stiffness
- Improve spinal alignment and joint mobility
- Address muscle imbalances from poor posture
- Provide ergonomic and lifestyle guidance
Combined with simple changes at work, like a standing desk or regular movement breaks, chiropractic care can make a big difference.
Conclusion
If you’re dealing with lower back pain in Perth, don’t wait until it becomes unbearable. Chiropractic care offers a gentle, effective way to reduce pain, improve function, and prevent recurrence.
Looking for a trusted chiropractor for lower back pain in Burswood?
You’re in the right place. My team and I bring over 30 years of combined experience helping patients overcome lower back pain and get back to living comfortably. Learn more about my team here.
Whether your pain is new or ongoing, we’re here to listen, support, and guide you with care that’s tailored to your needs. Book online in under 60 seconds. We’re always here for you.
