Comprehensive Lower Back Pain Support from PainMed’s Trusted Specialists in Sydney.
Painmed offers physiotherapy as a first-line treatment for lower back pain. Movement and exercise, manual therapy, and advice are what physiotherapists do. In the course of a lifetime, up to 80% of people will experience back pain at least once in their lives, according to a recent study. There are a lot of us! The actual figure is even higher, according to most researchers.
Chronic or acute back pain can be debilitating if you’ve ever experienced it. People don’t see a physiotherapist until their back pain restricts their lifestyle in some way. It may prevent you from participating in sports or leisure activities, impair your ability to work or keep you awake at night.
It doesn’t matter what the cause of back pain is, a qualified physiotherapist can help. As physiotherapists, we are trained to assess how people move and why movement patterns are related to pain. Our focus is on the range of motion, quality/control, and restrictions.
The next step is to explore why this movement is abnormal. Do you think it’s a joint problem or a muscle problem? Could it be a lack of control or weakness? This knowledge of biomechanics is used to retrain and improve your movement and prevent a recurrence of back pain.
Lower back pain is one of the most common musculoskeletal conditions, affecting many individuals today. Whether it stems from injury, age-related degeneration, disc-related issues, or spinal pain in the cervical or thoracic regions, persistent discomfort can significantly impact your ability to move, work, and enjoy daily life. At PainMed Sydney, we provide advanced, personalised care plans that address all areas of spinal pain using evidence-based treatments, helping patients restore mobility and achieve lasting relief.
At PainMed, our lower back pain treatment in Sydney involves a comprehensive approach that combines detailed diagnostic evaluations with non-surgical therapies tailored to each patient’s specific condition and pain severity. Our focus is on reducing inflammation, improving spinal function, increasing overall functionality, and addressing the root cause of discomfort, rather than simply masking symptoms. By targeting the source of pain, we aim to help patients reduce discomfort, restore mobility, and improve their quality of life.
As a leading provider of lower back pain management in Sydney, the PainMed team offers targeted, evidence-based care for a range of spinal conditions. Our approach includes comprehensive assessments and safe, minimally invasive procedures tailored to the individual needs of each patient. Whether your symptoms are recent or long-standing, our goal is to deliver clinically effective interventions that reduce pain, improve spinal function, and enhance overall quality of life.
At PainMed, consultations with our back pain specialist, Dr. Alister Ramachandran and his team, focus on developing a precise and personalised treatment plan tailored to your condition. Each plan is carefully monitored and adjusted as needed to support your recovery at every stage. To discuss your symptoms and explore appropriate treatment options, contact our team on 02 8999 1054.
There is rarely a single cause of back pain, especially lower back pain. Injured or tight bodies are highly adaptable.
Consequently, if a joint in your spine becomes stiff from constant work posture, your body will adapt by using other joints, such as the pelvis or hips. At first, this worked well. However, the imbalance leads to poor movement habits. Pain can set in at that point.
During the past decade, we have gained a better understanding of biomechanics and how different body parts interact, allowing us to identify and explain symptoms more effectively.
Back pain can be caused by a variety of factors, including but not limited to:
Physiotherapists can manage anything related to muscles and joints, and one of the most common issues people seek help for is back pain. If you’re looking for effective physio for back pain, it’s important to understand that pain can be caused by a variety of muscle and joint issues, including spasms, sprains, tears, and weakness.
Finding the root cause requires a deeper assessment. A qualified Back pain specialist Sydney can provide tailored treatment after identifying the contributing factors. By carefully assessing movement patterns, we look for imbalances or differences from normal. We also take a complete history of your pain. Sometimes, structures simply cannot cope with changes in routine, work duties, sports, or hobbies. Using a hands-on approach, we feel the movement of joints, palpate muscles and soft tissues, and analyse this information to find the source of your discomfort.
When you’ve had back pain treatment in Sydney, you may notice that it often involves areas other than the pain site itself. This is because poor movement in other parts of the body can contribute to back issues. For example, limited hip mobility can increase the load on your lower back, while poor pelvic alignment can affect your lumbar spine. Even your foot and knee biomechanics may place uneven stress on your back.
If you’re struggling with ongoing discomfort, seeing a trusted lower back physio in Sydney can help restore mobility, reduce pain, and prevent future issues.
At PainMed, our lower back pain treatment in Sydney addresses a wide range of underlying conditions that contribute to discomfort, restricted mobility, and chronic pain. Our team of back pain specialist doctors, supported by experienced allied health professionals, provides comprehensive care across our locations in Norwest, Westmead, and Blacktown.
Using advanced diagnostic tools and evidence-based therapies, we treat a variety of spinal conditions, ensuring personalised and effective treatment for each patient.
01
Facet Joint Pain
Facet joints are small joints located at each segment of the spine. Degeneration or inflammation of these joints can cause localised pain and stiffness. Targeted facet joint injections are often effective in reducing this type of discomfort.
02
Spinal Stenosis
This condition occurs when the spinal canal narrows, putting pressure on the spinal cord or nerves. It can lead to pain, numbness, or weakness in the lower body. Our treatments focus on relieving this nerve compression.
03
Degenerative Disc Disease
As we age, the spinal discs can wear down, resulting in pain and reduced flexibility. PainMed uses therapies that reduce inflammation and help stabilise the spine, relieving symptoms of disc degeneration.
01
Facet Joint Pain
Facet joints are small joints located at each segment of the spine. Degeneration or inflammation of these joints can cause localised pain and stiffness. Targeted facet joint injections are often effective in reducing this type of discomfort.
02
Spinal Stenosis
This condition occurs when the spinal canal narrows, putting pressure on the spinal cord or nerves. It can lead to pain, numbness, or weakness in the lower body. Our treatments focus on relieving this nerve compression.
03
Degenerative Disc Disease
As we age, the spinal discs can wear down, resulting in pain and reduced flexibility. PainMed uses therapies that reduce inflammation and help stabilise the spine, relieving symptoms of disc degeneration.
04
Herniated or Bulging Discs
05
Sciatica
04
Herniated or Bulging Discs
Disc herniation can compress spinal nerves and lead to sharp pain, numbness, or tingling. Our back pain specialist doctor may recommend spinal injections to reduce pressure and inflammation around the affected nerve.
05
Sciatica
Sciatica occurs when the sciatic nerve is compressed, often due to a disc-related condition, leading to radiating pain down the leg. At PainMed, our pain specialists offer a range of targeted treatments, including nerve block therapies, image-guided spinal injections, medication management, and personalised physical rehabilitation. These approaches aim to reduce nerve inflammation, relieve pain, and restore function.
Back Pain Physiotherapy Techniques
Back pain can be treated with many different types of physiotherapy, including:
Initially, we aim to achieve a balanced movement of the spine. We can develop maintenance strategies to prevent recurrences once correct movement is achieved.
More complex issues may require several hands-on sessions and strengthening and stretching exercises at home. Prevention is our most critical goal!
Back Pain that is acute versus chronic
Acute pain (lasting less than four weeks) and chronic pain (lasting more than four weeks) are two different types of pain. Unlike chronic pain, acute pain is often caused by factors that haven’t caused postural changes or compensations.
Chronic pain has many contributing factors and is more difficult to treat than acute pain. The majority of people do not make a physiotherapy appointment until they have had back pain for several months. There is nothing more inconvenient than pain. Chronic pain, on the other hand, can be more severe and more difficult to treat.
What is the right time to see a physiotherapist after experiencing back pain or lower back pain? We recommend visiting your physiotherapist in the early stages of back pain since no pain is healthy pain.
Seek professional assistance if pain persists despite rest or medication. You should consult a well-trained physiotherapist or doctor if you experience neurological symptoms such as weakness, numbness, or pain radiating down your legs.
One physiotherapy back pain session can significantly improve a person’s health. Chronic pain and complex issues may require multiple treatments. Using home-based programs, we then focus on maintenance and prevention.
Get moving to relieve back pain
Among the factors contributing to back pain are weight gain and high-intensity load-bearing exercises like running and lifting heavy weights. Walking, cycling, and swimming provide health benefits without causing spinal stress.
With the help of a qualified physiotherapist, you can achieve optimal health and fitness without contributing to spinal injuries or deterioration.
Poor posture is the most significant cause of back pain. Working in awkward positions or sitting for long periods is sometimes unavoidable. Lower back pain can be prevented by moving well when completing tasks and changing positions regularly while seated.
Learn to move in a way that doesn’t negatively impact your body. Physiotherapy assessments can provide valuable information to help you work and play more efficiently.
Is it better to rest or exercise if you have back pain?
In the event of pain, many people are unsure whether to keep working or rest. Depending on the cause and severity, it will differ.
When acute episodes occur, rest can help settle the symptoms and allow a faster return to normal function.
Chronic pain makes rest ineffective and will not yield positive results. Each individual’s chronic pain needs to be evaluated and treated differently. The benefits of rest are rarely long-term.
Exercises such as walking can benefit your overall health and relieve back pain. However, if walking is contributing to the pain, taking a break from that activity can help.
At PainMed, we offer a wide range of non-surgical and minimally invasive treatments to address lower back pain effectively. Our treatment plans are tailored to your specific diagnosis, pain level, and overall health, ensuring the best possible outcomes. Here are some of the key types of back pain treatment we provide:
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy plays a key role in managing back pain by strengthening core and spinal muscles, improving posture, and enhancing flexibility. At PainMed, our specialist pain physiotherapists and exercise physiologists develop customised exercise programs that may include hydrotherapy and clinical Pilates to support spinal alignment, prevent further injury, and promote long-term spinal health. Integrated into a multidisciplinary treatment plan, physical therapy empowers patients to take an active role in their recovery and overall wellbeing.
Interventional Therapies for Back Pain
For patients who do not achieve sufficient relief with conservative care, interventional therapies provide targeted, minimally invasive solutions to directly address the source of spinal pain. These evidence-based procedures are performed under image guidance for precision and safety, aiming to reduce inflammation, relieve nerve compression, and restore function.
01
Facet Joint Injections
Facet joints can become inflamed or arthritic, leading to localised back pain and stiffness. Image-guided injections deliver anaesthetic and anti-inflammatory medication directly into the facet joint, providing both diagnostic insight and short-to-medium–term pain relief.
02
Nerve Root Blocks
When a spinal nerve root is compressed by a herniated disc or spinal stenosis, pain can radiate into the legs or buttocks. Nerve root blocks deliver targeted medication around the affected nerve root to ease irritation, reduce swelling, and provide significant relief.
03
Epidural Steroid Injections (ESIs)
Epidural injections are widely used to manage sciatica, herniated disc pain, and radiculopathy. Anti-inflammatory medication is injected into the epidural space to reduce swelling and nerve irritation, offering substantial pain reduction and improved mobility.
04
Radiofrequency Treatment of the Disc
For discogenic pain, radiofrequency energy can be applied directly to the affected disc. This technique alters pain transmission within the disc, reduces internal disc pressure, and helps stabilise the disc structure, providing meaningful pain relief without open surgery.
05
Racz Epidural Neurolysis (Racz Procedure)
In cases of chronic or treatment-resistant pain caused by disc herniation, scar tissue, or nerve root entrapment, the Racz procedure is used. A specialised catheter is inserted into the epidural space to deliver targeted medication, break down adhesions, and flush away inflammatory mediators. This helps reduce nerve irritation, relieve pain, and improve mobility in patients with persistent spinal pain.
06
Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)
For chronic back pain caused by facet joint or sacroiliac joint dysfunction, radiofrequency ablation uses controlled heat to deactivate the small nerves transmitting pain signals. Relief may last from six months to over a year, reducing the need for repeat medications.
01
Facet Joint Injections
Facet joints can become inflamed or arthritic, leading to localised back pain and stiffness. Image-guided injections deliver anaesthetic and anti-inflammatory medication directly into the facet joint, providing both diagnostic insight and short-to-medium–term pain relief.
02
Nerve Root Blocks
When a spinal nerve root is compressed by a herniated disc or spinal stenosis, pain can radiate into the legs or buttocks. Nerve root blocks deliver targeted medication around the affected nerve root to ease irritation, reduce swelling, and provide significant relief.
03
Epidural Steroid Injections (ESIs)
Epidural injections are widely used to manage sciatica, herniated disc pain, and radiculopathy. Anti-inflammatory medication is injected into the epidural space to reduce swelling and nerve irritation, offering substantial pain reduction and improved mobility.
04
Radiofrequency Treatment of the Disc
For discogenic pain, radiofrequency energy can be applied directly to the affected disc. This technique alters pain transmission within the disc, reduces internal disc pressure, and helps stabilise the disc structure, providing meaningful pain relief without open surgery.
05
Racz Epidural Neurolysis (Racz Procedure)
In cases of chronic or treatment-resistant pain caused by disc herniation, scar tissue, or nerve root entrapment, the Racz procedure is used. A specialised catheter is inserted into the epidural space to deliver targeted medication, break down adhesions, and flush away inflammatory mediators. This helps reduce nerve irritation, relieve pain, and improve mobility in patients with persistent spinal pain.
06
Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)
For chronic back pain caused by facet joint or sacroiliac joint dysfunction, radiofrequency ablation uses controlled heat to deactivate the small nerves transmitting pain signals. Relief may last from six months to over a year, reducing the need for repeat medications.
07
Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS)
SCS is an advanced neuromodulation therapy for patients with persistent, treatment-resistant back or leg pain. A small device is implanted to deliver mild electrical impulses to the spinal cord, masking pain signals before they reach the brain. This therapy can provide long-term relief and improve quality of life in patients who have not responded to other interventions.
08
Peripheral Field Stimulation (PFS)
PFS works by placing small electrodes near the peripheral nerves or painful soft tissue regions around the spine. It is particularly effective for patients with localised neuropathic back pain, offering a less invasive alternative to spinal cord stimulation with targeted pain control.
07
Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS)
SCS is an advanced neuromodulation therapy for patients with persistent, treatment-resistant back or leg pain. A small device is implanted to deliver mild electrical impulses to the spinal cord, masking pain signals before they reach the brain. This therapy can provide long-term relief and improve quality of life in patients who have not responded to other interventions.
08
Peripheral Field Stimulation (PFS)
PFS works by placing small electrodes near the peripheral nerves or painful soft tissue regions around the spine. It is particularly effective for patients with localised neuropathic back pain, offering a less invasive alternative to spinal cord stimulation with targeted pain control.
We understand the impact spinal conditions such as slipped discs, degenerative disc disease, and nerve compression can have on your daily life — from persistent pain and reduced mobility to symptoms like tingling, weakness, or numbness. That’s why our approach is focused on accurate diagnosis, minimally invasive care, and long-term relief tailored to your unique condition.
Specialists with Expertise in Spinal Disc Conditions
At PainMed, our team includes highly experienced lower back specialists in Sydney, led by Dr. Alister Ramachandran. With advanced training in diagnosing and treating complex disc-related and spinal conditions, Dr. Ramachandran and our multidisciplinary team provide comprehensive, evidence-based care tailored to each patient’s needs.
01
Comprehensive Diagnosis Using Advanced Imaging
We utilise the latest diagnostic tools, including MRI, CT scans, and whole-body bone scans, to accurately identify the source of pain and guide effective treatment planning. When required, we also arrange nerve conduction studies to assess nerve health and refine the diagnosis further.
02
Focus on Restoring Mobility and Reducing Nerve Pain
Our goal is not just to manage pain but to restore function. By targeting the root cause of back and disc pain, we help patients reduce discomfort, improve movement, and return to daily activities with greater confidence.
03
Customised Recovery Plans with Ongoing Support
Treatment at PainMed doesn’t end with a procedure. We develop tailored recovery plans that may include physiotherapy, ergonomic guidance, and follow-up care to support long-term results and prevent recurrence.
04
PainMed is a leading Sydney-based pain management clinic dedicated to helping patients manage their pain effectively and improve daily function. Led by Dr. Alister Ramachandran, our multidisciplinary team includes pain management doctors, physiotherapists, spine specialists, psychologists, exercise physiologists, dietitians, and rehabilitation physicians. Together, we provide comprehensive, evidence-based care tailored to the unique needs of each patient, with a focus on restoring mobility, enhancing quality of life, and supporting long-term recovery.
We focus on providing minimally invasive, image-guided treatments that target the source of pain while preserving surrounding tissue. With multiple locations in the Greater Sydney area, including Norwest, Westmead, and Blacktown, our clinic combines science, precision, and compassion to deliver the highest standard of care.
Whether you’re suffering from lower back pain in Sydney due to disc problems or joint degeneration, we offer expert evaluations and treatment pathways that are safe and effective.
Back pain is something we all experience at some point in our lives. A physiotherapist’s ultimate goal is to prevent minor acute episodes from becoming chronic. Servicing your car is similar to that. If you regularly deal with minor problems, you are far less likely to have a major problem. In some cases, regular spaced-out appointments can prevent severe pain and dysfunction.
Managing lower back pain requires early intervention, a complete assessment of your biomechanics, and a comprehensive program of exercises and stretches to improve and maintain your biomechanics.
We want to keep you from experiencing back pain if you are one of the lucky ones! A friendly physiotherapist can create a suitable exercise program for you if you are unsure about what exercise is right for you. Studies show that exercise reduces the risk of developing lower back pain by 33%.
Non-surgical treatments such as nerve root blocks, image-guided spinal injections, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy, and medication management have proven highly effective in reducing pain caused by slipped discs. These approaches help relieve nerve compression, reduce inflammation, and support tissue healing, often in combination with physiotherapy and exercise-based rehabilitation.
Recovery time varies depending on the treatment used and the severity of the condition. Most patients begin to see improvement within a few weeks after targeted therapy.
Many interventional pain treatments at PainMed are covered by private health insurance or Medicare with an appropriate referral. Our team can help you understand your funding options and guide you through the process. In addition, treatments for work-related injuries and third-party claims may also be covered once approved by the relevant insurer or compensation body.
If your lower back pain persists for more than a few weeks or worsens despite rest or medication, it is important to consult a back pain specialist at PainMed in Sydney. Early assessment can help identify the underlying cause and allow for timely, targeted treatment to prevent further complications and support long-term recovery.
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Originally from England, Sally graduated from St George’s Hospital, University of London in 2004 with a BSc (First Class Hons) in Physiotherapy. Since settling in Australia, Sally has worked in private practice and in the public hospital setting across Sydney.
Sally gained a Masters in Medicine Pain Management from the University of Sydney in 2019 and is a Titled Pain Physiotherapist (as awarded by the Australian Physiotherapy Association).
In addition to private practice, Sally currently works as a Senior Physiotherapist at Westmead Hospital Pain Management Service.
Sally is highly skilled in assessing, diagnosing and treating people who experience chronic pain. She enjoys working with injured workers and CTP claimants. She has a deep understanding of the impact of pain on the whole person and on their functioning in daily life. In partnership with her colleagues, Sally enjoys applying her knowledge and clinical skills to provide a safe space for exploration of the physical and emotional meaning of pain and for recovery of function.
Qualifications and Experience
Dr. Adam is a Fellowship-trained Pain Medicine Specialist with a Fellowship from the Faculty of Pain Medicine (FFPMANZCA) and a Master of Pain Medicine from the University of Sydney. He is dedicated to the comprehensive management of chronic pain across all age groups.
Dr. Adam trained in adult pain medicine at Liverpool Hospital, Nepean Hospital, and the Department of Pain Medicine, and completed additional training in paediatric chronic pain at The Children’s Hospital at Westmead. He currently serves as a Staff Specialist at Westmead and St George Public Hospitals (NSW Health), and is a Visiting Medical Officer (VMO) at Liverpool Public Hospital, St George Private, Sydney Southwest Private, Holroyd Private, Norwest Private, and Nepean Private Hospitals.
He adopts a whole-person, multidisciplinary approach rooted in the socio-psycho-biomedical model, utilising both pharmacologic and interventional techniques. These include:
Dr. Adam is an Authorised Prescriber of Medicinal Cannabis and holds a Diploma in Medicinal Cannabis. He is also certified in Opioid Treatment Programs, including Methadone. His areas of interest include opioid dependence management, medicinal cannabis, and interventional pain procedures.
He also completed advanced training in Virtual Reality Therapy for chronic pain and mental health disorders in Barcelona, Spain, and has further qualifications in Focused Psychological Strategies, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and Clinical Hypnosis.
Qualifications:
