Low Back Pain

Expert Physiotherapy Care for All Types of Low Back Pain Conditions

If you’re struggling with low back pain, you’re in the right place. Our clinic is proud to have one of the few Specialist Sports and Exercise Physiotherapists in Australia on staff.  In addition we house one of Brisbane’s largest rehabilitation gyms. This means you’ll receive top-notch care from an expert team with state-of-the-art facilities to help you recover and return to activity safely.

We understand back pain can be debilitating and frustrating.  Below are common low back pain conditions and their typical causes.  And how physiotherapy can help each one. 

Common causes of Low Back Pain:

Low back pain is extremely common. In fact, about 1 in 13 people worldwide (around 619 million individuals) experienced low back pain in 2020.  It’s also a leading cause of disability globally.  Back pain can affect anyone from athletes to office workers.  This page is dedicated to everyday low back pain.  We have information on Sports Related Low Back on our sports back pain page.  

Below we’ve listed some of the most common low back conditions we treat at Sports & Exercise Physio, along with easy-to-understand explanations of what they are, why they occur, and how physiotherapy can help.

Lumbar Disc Injury (Slipped Disc)

Firstly, we hate the term “slipped disc”, which suggests images of serious disc damage or things being “out of place”.  More commonly, people suffer a disc strain, also known as an annular strain.  These strains can progress into disc bulges, or in worse cases, disc herniations.  Although most people suffering their first episode of low back pain won’t have serious structural damage.

The good news is that most disc injuries improve with time and proper care.  Physiotherapy can significantly help.  We focus on relieving pain improving mobility through guided exercises (for example, gentle stretches or positions that ease pressure on the disc), postural training, and manual therapy techniques.   With consistent physiotherapy rehabilitation, most people recover from a disc injury without needing surgery!

ankle inversion injury torn ATFL

Achilles Tendinopathy

Achilles tendinopathy (aka tendonitis) is an overuse injury of the Achilles tendon, which connects your calf muscle to your heel.  It is usually caused from repetitive stress like running or jumping. You might feel pain or stiffness at the back of your heel, especially in the morning or after activity. With proper physiotherapy (stretching, strengthening, and gradual load management), Achilles tendinopathy can improve. (Severe sudden stress on the Achilles can even cause it to tear – see Achilles rupture below.)

Achilles Tendon Rupture

An Achilles rupture is a complete tear of the Achilles tendon. This injury often happens during a sudden, forceful movement – like pushing off for a jump or sprint.  People sometimes describe feeling a “pop” in the back of the ankle and immediate pain and difficulty walking.  An Achilles rupture typically requires prompt medical care (sometimes surgery) followed by physiotherapy to restore strength and function.

Achilles Tendinopathy

Achilles tendinopathy (aka tendonitis) is an overuse injury of the Achilles tendon, which connects your calf muscle to your heel.  It is usually caused from repetitive stress like running or jumping. You might feel pain or stiffness at the back of your heel, especially in the morning or after activity. With proper physiotherapy (stretching, strengthening, and gradual load management), Achilles tendinopathy can improve. (Severe sudden stress on the Achilles can even cause it to tear – see Achilles rupture below.)

Achilles Tendon Rupture

An Achilles rupture is a complete tear of the Achilles tendon. This injury often happens during a sudden, forceful movement – like pushing off for a jump or sprint.  People sometimes describe feeling a “pop” in the back of the ankle and immediate pain and difficulty walking.  An Achilles rupture typically requires prompt medical care (sometimes surgery) followed by physiotherapy to restore strength and function.

Achilles Tendinopathy

Achilles tendinopathy (aka tendonitis) is an overuse injury of the Achilles tendon, which connects your calf muscle to your heel.  It is usually caused from repetitive stress like running or jumping. You might feel pain or stiffness at the back of your heel, especially in the morning or after activity. With proper physiotherapy (stretching, strengthening, and gradual load management), Achilles tendinopathy can improve. (Severe sudden stress on the Achilles can even cause it to tear – see Achilles rupture below.)

Achilles Tendon Rupture

An Achilles rupture is a complete tear of the Achilles tendon. This injury often happens during a sudden, forceful movement – like pushing off for a jump or sprint.  People sometimes describe feeling a “pop” in the back of the ankle and immediate pain and difficulty walking.  An Achilles rupture typically requires prompt medical care (sometimes surgery) followed by physiotherapy to restore strength and function.

Why choose us?

Expertise in Running Injuries

Our physiotherapists have extensive knowledge and specialised training in diagnosing and treating running-related injuries. Led by a Specialist Sports and Exercise Physiotherapist (as awarded by the ACP in 2023) we use modern assessment and treatment techniques to get you back fast and efficiently.

Individualised Approach

Every runner has individual factors that contribute to their injuries.  Because of this standard treatment plans often don’t work for everyone.  

We understand the unique demands of running and can provide tailored treatment plans to address your specific needs.

Collaborative Care

We tailor treatment to your unique needs, which may include focusing on mobility, strength, training load, run progressions, or technique adjustments.


Our approach can include collaboration with strength or running coaches, personal trainers, and other health professionals to provide you with the best support.

Advanced Techniques

Our clinic utilises the latest evidence-based treatment techniques and modalities to optimise your recovery. From manual therapy and therapeutic exercises to specialised taping and advanced rehabilitation equipment, we employ a wide range of tools and strategies to accelerate your healing process.

Telehealth

Prevention and Education

In addition to treating your current injury, we are passionate about equipping you with the knowledge and tools to prevent future issues.

Our physiotherapists will provide you with tailored exercise programs and guidance, helping you build strength, improve running form, and reduce the risk of future injuries.

Common Running Injuries We Treat​

We understand the challenges runners face. Here are some of the most common running injuries we treat.

injured runners treatment

Shin Splints

Runner's knee

Runner's knee

Achilles tendoniti

Achilles tendonitis and Achilles tendinopathy

Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar Fasciitis

Stress fractures

Stress fractures

Muscle strains and sprains

Muscle strains and sprains

Our expert running physiotherapists address these issues early to prevent long-term complications. Let’s keep you on track toward your running goals.

Evidence-Based Methods for Optimal Running Results

Our running injury physio uses the latest techniques to provide effective treatment for your needs. At Sports and Exercise Physio, we rely on proven science-backed techniques to ensure the best results. These include:

Take Your Running to the Next Level With Expert Running Physio in Brisbane

Don’t let setbacks hold you back from your running goals. At Sports and Exercise Physio, our running physio is here to help you reach your full potential.

Book Your Appointment Today

Take the first step toward overcoming your running injury and achieving your goals. Contact us now to schedule your initial consultation and discover how our expert physiotherapy services can support your recovery journey.

Running Physio in Brisbane: FAQs

Do I need a referral to see a running physiotherapist?

No, you can book an appointment directly with us.

What should I wear to my appointment?

Please wear comfortable clothing and shoes that you can run in.

How many running physio sessions will I need?

The number of running physio sessions will depend on your running goals and any injuries you have.