Physio Spine Care

Evidence-informed physiotherapy approach for neck and back disorders — assessment, treatment options, exercise examples, safety, and clinic checklist.

Physiotherapy for spinal complaints aims to reduce pain, restore movement, improve function and prevent recurrence. Management is tailored by diagnosis, severity, patient goals and red-flag screening.

Common spine conditions seen in physio

✬ Mechanical low back pain (non-specific)

✬ Intervertebral disc disorders (disc-related back/leg pain)

✬ Radiculopathy / nerve root compression

✬ Neck pain and cervicogenic headaches

✬ Spinal stenosis (neurogenic claudication)

✬ Post-operative spine rehabilitation

Clinical assessment

A safe, focused assessment includes:

✦ History: onset, pattern, aggravating/relieving factors, red flags (fever, weight loss, bowel/bladder change, progressive neurological deficit).

✦ Observation & movement: range of motion, posture, gait and functional tasks.

✦ Neurological screen: reflexes, myotomes, dermatomes where indicated.

✦ Special tests: neurodynamic tests, centralization testing, orthopaedic provocation tests as appropriate.

✦ Outcome measures: pain scales, ODI/NDI, PSFS, 6-min walk, timed up-and-go (as appropriate).