Do I need imaging before I see a physio for back pain?

Not usually. We assess your back first and advise if imaging or a GP review is needed. Your plan focuses on movement, strength and symptom control.

I’ve had back pain for years—can physio still help?

Yes. Long-standing back pain is common and often responds well to a combination of education, graded exercise and lifestyle changes. It may take time, but we’ll focus on what you can improve—pain levels, movement, strength and confidence.

Should I rest completely until my back pain goes away?

Generally no. Prolonged bed rest can actually make back pain worse for most people. We’ll guide you on staying as active as is safe, modifying tasks and gradually building back up.

Do you accept funded care for back pain treatment?

Yes. We support Medicare CDM, NDIS, WorkCover, TAC, My Aged Care and DVA pathways where eligible. Please bring any referral or claim details to your first visit so we can align your care with your funding.

Where are you located?

Mernda: 136 Schotters Rd, Mernda VIC 3754. Reservoir: 224A Broadway, Reservoir VIC 3073. See our Locations page for directions, parking and clinic photos at each.

Back Pain — Assessment, Treatment & Rehab

Q: How many sessions will I need?

It depends on the cause of your back pain, how long you’ve had it and your goals. Some acute episodes settle in a few sessions; more persistent problems may need a longer-term plan. Your physio will discuss expectations with you at the initial assessment.

Lower back strain, sciatica or mid-back stiffness?

Get clear answers and evidence-based physio to reduce pain, restore movement and get you back to work, family and life.

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Benefits

How physio can help your back pain

Here’s what to expect from working with us — clear assessment, evidence-based treatment, and care that adapts to your goals.

Reduce pain & tightness

Hands-on treatment and targeted exercises to calm irritated tissues and improve movement.

Move with confidence

A step-by-step plan so you know what to do, what to avoid (for now) and how to build back up safely.

Prevent flare-up

Strength, mobility and load-management strategies to reduce the risk of future episodes.

Get back to what you love

Tailored around your work, family, sport and hobbies, not just generic advice.

Who It Helps

Common back pain situations we see

Back physio can help if you:

Woke with a sudden “locked” back or sharp twinge after bending, lifting or twisting.

Have ongoing low back ache or stiffness from desk work, driving or caring for kids.

Feel leg pain, pins and needles or sciatica-type symptoms that may be linked to your back.

Have had back pain on and off for months or years and want a better long-term plan than just resting or painkillers.

Are nervous about moving or exercising because you’re afraid of making things worse.

How It Works

Your pathway to relief

Every appointment is structured around your story. Below is how we work together to get you back to what matters.

01. Assessment

We start by listening—when your back pain started, what makes it worse or better, and what you’re worried about. Your physio will:

Review your medical history and any imaging you already have

Check posture, movement, strength and nerve signs

Identify likely pain drivers (e.g. joint irritation, muscular overload, disc involvement, movement habits) You’ll leave this session with a clear explanation in plain English—not jargon.

02. Treatment

Your treatment plan is built around you and may include:

Hands-on techniques (joint mobilisation, soft-tissue release, gentle stretches)

A personalised exercise program focusing on mobility, core/hip strength and gradual return to normal activities

Education about pain, pacing and positions that help you settle symptoms

Practical advice on work tasks, lifting, childcare, driving and sleep positions The goal is not just short-term relief, but to help your back tolerate more over time.

03. Progress

At follow-up visits we:

Review pain, movement and function (e.g. sitting tolerance, walking, lifting)

Progress your exercises so your back becomes stronger and more resilient

Adjust your plan around flare-ups, work demands or life changes We keep you involved in decisions so you feel confident—not confused—about your recovery.

Testimonials

What Our Patients Said

Real feedback from people we’ve helped with pain, injury and movement problems across our Mernda and Reservoir clinics.

Google rating from local patients

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FAQs

Affordable Pricing that Doesn't Sacrifice Quality

Do I need a GP referral?

Do you accept WorkCover, TAC, NDIS, DVA or My Aged Care?

Do you offer home visits?

How many sessions will I need?

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MEET THE TEAM

Meet your physiotherapists

Stephanie and Mau both see patients across our Mernda and Reservoir clinics. Click a card to read full bios and book direct.

Stephanie

Director & Senior Physiotherapist

Director and Senior Physiotherapist with almost a decade of experience in person-centred care — working from our Mernda and Reservoir clinics. Special interests in chronic pain, sports injuries, women’s health and balance/vestibular conditions.

Mau

Physiotherapist

Physiotherapist with almost 10 years across private practice, community physio and aged care. Special interests in orthopaedic rehabilitation, chronic disease management and sports injuries.