Understanding Back Pain & Injuries: Causes, Treatment & How Physiotherapy Can Help

What Causes Back Pain?

Back pain can develop for various reasons, from sports injuries and poor movement patterns to degenerative conditions. Some of the most common causes include:

1. Sports & Activity-Related Injuries, poor movement patterns & general overload of the spine

• Muscle Strains & Sprains – Overuse or improper lifting techniques can lead to muscle and ligament injuries.

2. Poor Posture & Lifestyle Factors

• Sedentary Lifestyles – Sitting for long periods can restrict movement in the spine and reduce mobility through the intervertebral joints. When we don't move, our joints and our muscles weaken and reduce in endurance ability i.e. stability.

• Incorrect Posture – There is no such thing as "poor posture", however sustained posture leads to negative affects and how we sit for the length of a work day does matter. Slouching or improper workplace ergonomics can contribute to chronic back pain.

• Repetitive Movements – Overuse of certain movements in work or sport can lead to strain and injury.

3. A collection of factors of the spine & often occurring without a pinpointed event, however heavy or intense movement of the back can also produce such injuries.

• Herniated Discs & Sciatica – These two go hand in hand. Often times they are not caused by a specific injury and can occur without a cause. This is when a part of the spinal disc pushes through its outer layer, pushing on the sciatic nerve. This pain radiates down the leg.

4. Degenerative Conditions & Ageing

• Osteoarthritis – The breakdown of cartilage in the spine, leading to stiffness and pain.

• Spinal Stenosis – Narrowing of the spinal canal, often causing nerve compression.

• Degenerative Disc Disease – Wear and tear of spinal discs, reducing their cushioning effect.

How Physiotherapy Can Help with Back Pain

Physiotherapy is an effective, non-invasive treatment for back pain, helping patients recover safely and strengthen their spine to prevent re-injury. At Rehab Co, we use evidence-based techniques tailored to your specific needs, including:

1. Pain Management & Mobility Improvement

• Hands-on manual therapy to reduce muscle tension and improve spinal alignment.

• Soft tissue techniques, joint mobilisation, and stretching to relieve stiffness.

2. Strength & Core Stability Training

• Strengthening exercises for core muscles to support the lower back.

• Targeted rehabilitation programmes to improve spinal stability and reduce pain recurrence.

3. Postural & Ergonomic Assessments

• Identifying and correcting poor posture habits contributing to back pain.

• Ergonomic advice for workstations, sleep positions, and daily activities.

4. Injury Prevention & Long-Term Management

• Education on movement patterns and lifting techniques to avoid strain.

• Customised exercise plans to maintain flexibility and strength for long-term spinal health.

Why Choose Rehab Co Physio as your preferred choice in Auckland & Wellington?

At Rehab Co, our team of experienced physiotherapists provides expert back pain management with a focus on long-term recovery. We offer:

• Personalised Treatment Plans – Tailored to your specific back condition and lifestyle.

• Experienced Physiotherapists – Specialists in musculoskeletal rehabilitation and spinal care.

• State-of-the-Art Techniques – A combination of manual therapy, exercise rehabilitation, and movement analysis.

• Convenient Locations – Clinics in Auckland and Wellington for accessible, high-quality care.

Book Your Back Physiotherapy Appointment Today

If you’re struggling with back pain, don’t let it affect your daily activities and well-being. Rehab Co is here to help you recover, strengthen, and move with confidence.

📍 Book an appointment today at RehabCoPhysio.com and take the first step towards a pain-free back!