Spinal Treatment

4 Life Physiotherapy is the Peel Region’s foremost back pain treatment clinic. Your initial consultation with 4 Life Physiotherapy is a rigorous and thorough investigation into the cause of your complaints. It is an in-depth spinal assessment including orthopaedic & neurological tests and expert biomechanical & palpatory evaluations. We then give our diagnosis and discuss a subsequent treatment plan to ensure clear patient understanding as well as the optimal resolution of symptoms. Our individualised approach to spine pain allows us to then direct attention to the root cause of these symptoms, to provide long-lasting relief.

To book your spinal treatment appointment, click here.

Is it a Disc Bulge, a Herniated Disc or a Pinched Nerve?

There is an unusually wide range of terms used to describe spinal disc problems in the neck, middle and lower back. Some common terms include ruptured disc, slipped disc, disc protrusion, degenerative disc disease, bulging disc and disc herniation. This can often cause our patients confusion and even frustration when different medical people use different terms to describe their problem.

Rather than focussing on which term is used to describe a disc, which often stems from interpreting scan results such as MRI, it is more useful to gain a clear understanding of the precise medical diagnosis.

This diagnosis determines the actual cause of your back pain, leg pain or other symptoms and is determined after:

A full medical history
A thorough physical examination
Review of one or more scans (if required).

The reason our patients shouldn’t focus on diagnostic imaging terminology is that if every person in Mandurah went off and had a scan of their lower back right now, almost everyone (even those without pain or stiffness) would have something wrong with their discs. By the time you’re in your 50’s, 80% of people without back pain will have disc degeneration.

Read more about the prevalence of degenerative spine imaging findings in asymptomatic patients here.

Spinal Mobilisation & Manipulation

Spinal manipulations and mobilisations are techniques used by our Physiotherapists as part of their overall treatment plan in the management of a variety of spinal complaints where a spinal joint restriction is present.

Manipulation involves the application of a high-velocity thrust at the end of the joint range. There may be an audible cracking sound, known as cavitation, which is due to the release of pressure from the joint. It is a safe, effective and comfortable treatment when performed by a trained therapist.

Mobilisation refers to a gentle passive rhythmic movement of a spinal segment or region within or at the limit of its range. Mobilisations are aimed at improving the range of motion in the region, easing muscle spasms, and reducing pain.

Other Spinal Treatments

At 4 Life Physiotherapy spinal manipulation and mobilisation techniques are often used in conjunction with other therapeutic modalities, such as:

Remedial Massage

Acupuncture Dry Needling

Shockwave Therapy

Exercise Prescription

Clinical Pilates

Hydrotherapy

Visiting a Physiotherapist

4 Life Physiotherapy has become the largest Physiotherapy private practice in our region because we take the time to sit and listen to our patients before providing a thorough examination and treatment. Please wear comfortable clothes that allow your physiotherapist to see and move the affected area. Rest assured that we are here to help you and after leaving your first appointment, not only should you feel better because someone has actually taken the time to discuss your pain, but you will also be clearer about why you have your pain, and how to get on top of it.

Assessment

Physiotherapists offer detailed assessments to investigate the cause of your pain or discomfort. This may include asking about yourself and your injury and what activities make your pain worse and what makes it better. We will then examine the injured / painful area using a range of specialised orthopaedic tests.

Diagnosis

Next, our experienced Physiotherapists will offer a diagnosis based on their findings from your assessment. If further investigations like X-ray or MRI or other medical testing are required, we will provide a referral. We will take the time to explain your diagnosis and answer any questions you may have.

Treatment

At 4 Life Physiotherapy, we adopt a holistic approach to treatment. We will address not only the symptoms of your condition but also the underlying cause of your problem, ensuring long term results. We will combine both “hands-on” physiotherapy techniques with home or clinic-based stretching and strengthening programs when needed.

Ongoing Care

We want our patients to experience good health 4 Life! That’s why our focus is on holistic, long-term results, rather than a “quick-fix”. We will explain to you the best course of treatment for your condition to keep you healthy for the long term.