FAQs about lower back pain Chiropractic care
1) Can a chiropractor really help with lower back pain?
Yes. Chiropractors assess how your spine, muscles, joints, and nerves are working together. For lower back pain, we use evidence-based care, such as gentle spinal adjustments, soft-tissue therapy, exercise rehab, posture coaching, laser therapy, and (where appropriate) dry needling to reduce pain, restore movement, and help prevent flare-ups.
2) What causes lower back pain?
Common causes include muscle strain, joint irritation (facet joints/sacroiliac joint), disc irritation or herniation, prolonged sitting/poor posture, and deconditioning. Sometimes stress, sleep, and workload also play a role. We identify the main drivers in your assessment and tailor care accordingly.
3) How many sessions will I need and how quickly will I feel better?
It depends on the cause, severity, and how long you’ve had symptoms. Some people feel improvement in 1–2 visits; longer-standing, recurrent, or nerve-related pain usually needs a structured plan over a few weeks.
We’ll outline expected milestones at your first appointment and adjust as you progress.
4) Is chiropractic safe for lower back pain?
When delivered by a qualified, experienced chiropractor, yes. We screen for risks, use the least forceful technique that suits you, and explain each step. Mild, short-lived soreness can occur (like post-exercise stiffness), and we’ll show you how to manage it.
5) Will treatment hurt?
Most care is well-tolerated. You may feel brief pressure or a “release.” If anything is uncomfortable, we’ll adapt immediately; there are always gentler options.
6) What should I expect at my first appointment?
- A conversation about your pain, health history, goals, and daily demands
- Movement, neurological, and orthopaedic tests to pinpoint the source
- A clear explanation of findings and options
- If appropriate, your first treatment the same day, plus home advice
7) Do I need X-rays or an MRI before treatment?
Usually not. Imaging is recommended only if “red flags” are present (e.g., significant trauma, fever, history of cancer, unexplained weight loss) or if symptoms persist or worsen despite appropriate care.
If we suspect a disc herniation with progressive weakness, we’ll refer for imaging promptly.
8) What are “red flags” that need urgent medical review?
Seek urgent care if you have:
- New or worsening leg weakness, numbness around the groin/saddle area
- Loss of bladder or bowel control
- Severe, unrelenting pain at night or with fever/unexplained weight loss
- Recent major trauma (e.g., fall, car accident)
If unsure, contact us, we’ll advise the safest next step.
9) Can chiropractic help sciatica or a herniated disc?
Often, yes. For many people with sciatica or disc-related pain, a combination of gentle joint work, nerve-glide exercises, graded mobility, and load management can reduce pain and improve function. If your case needs co-management (e.g., with your GP or imaging), we’ll coordinate that.
10) What techniques do you use?
Based on your presentation:
- Gentle spinal adjustments & mobilisations
- Soft-tissue therapy/myofascial release
- Exercise rehabilitation & core strengthening
- Dry needling (when suitable)
- Posture and movement coaching, ergonomic advice
11) What can I do at home to help?
We’ll give you simple, targeted exercises (mobility + strength), advice on activity pacing, and tips for sleep and desk setup. Heat/ice may help in the short term; movement beats bed rest in most cases.
12) How should I sleep with lower back pain?
Try side-lying with a pillow between the knees, or on your back with a pillow under the knees to reduce lumbar strain. A supportive mattress and the right pillow height for your neck also matter; we’re happy to advise.
13) Will I need to keep coming forever?
No. We aim to resolve your current episode and build your resilience so you rely on us less over time. Some patients choose occasional check-ins to stay on top of busy or physical lifestyles; that’s your choice.
14) Do I need a referral?
No referral is needed to see our chiropractors. We work closely with GPs, physios, and other providers when shared care benefits you.
15) What should I wear/bring?
Wear comfortable clothing that you can move in. Bring any previous imaging or reports (if you have them), a list of medications, and details of your health fund.
16) Do you offer gap-only payments?
Yes, gap-only with major health funds (eligibility applies). We’re transparent about fees and will outline costs before treatment begins. We also offer a 15-minute complimentary health assessment to discuss your back concerns and fit.
17) How quickly can I be seen?
We reserve same-day and next-day appointments whenever possible. You can check live availability and book online in under a minute.
