Dr Joshua Piercey
Dr Joshua Piercey is a specialist Orthopaedic and Spine Surgeon based at St Andrew’s Toowoomba Hospital, a designated Centre …
Back pain and spinal conditions
Back pain is one of the most common health concerns affecting Australians and can have a significant impact on work, exercise, sleep and everyday activities.
Explore orthopaedics > Back Pain and Spinal Conditions
There are many possible causes of back pain, ranging from muscle strain and posture-related issues through to spinal conditions, injuries and age-related changes. Understanding the cause of your symptoms is an important first step in determining the most appropriate treatment approach.
This page provides general information about some common causes of back pain, how they may be diagnosed, and the treatment options that may be considered by your healthcare team.
Common causes of back pain
Back pain can develop suddenly following an injury or gradually over time. In many cases, symptoms improve with conservative treatment, although some conditions may require ongoing management.
Common symptoms include:
- Pain in the back that may be sharp, dull, aching or burning
- Stiffness or reduced movement
- Pain that interferes with work, exercise or daily activities
- Changes in posture
- Pain that radiates into the legs
- Weakness, numbness or tingling
What can cause back pain?
Back pain can arise from a variety of causes, including:
- Muscle strain or tension
- Soft tissue injuries
- Poor posture or prolonged sitting
- Overuse injuries
- Degenerative changes within the spine
- Arthritis
- Osteoporosis
- Spinal injuries
How can I receive a diagnosis for back pain?
Your GP will discuss your symptoms with you, examine your spine and assess how your condition is affecting daily life. Depending on the circumstances, imaging such as X-rays, CT scans or MRI scans may be recommended.
They may also refer you to an orthopaedic specialist.
Treatment options
Many cases of back pain can be managed without surgery. Treatment may include:
- Physiotherapy
- Exercise programs
- Lifestyle modifications
- Pain management strategies
- Heat or cold therapy
- Injections where appropriate
- Rehabilitation
Degenerative spinal conditions
As we age, natural changes can occur within the spine that may contribute to pain, stiffness or reduced mobility.
Common spinal conditions
- Degenerative Disc Disease
Wear and tear affecting the discs between the vertebrae. - Spinal Stenosis
Narrowing of the spinal canal that may place pressure on the nerves. - Arthritis
The spine can be affected by osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory conditions. - Sciatica
Pain that radiates down the leg due to irritation or compression of a nerve.
Common symptoms include:
- Persistent back pain
- Stiffness
- Reduced movement
- Pain radiating into the legs
- Numbness or tingling
- Difficulty walking or standing for extended periods
Treatment options
Treatment depends on the condition and severity of symptoms but may include:
- Physiotherapy
- Exercise and strengthening programs
- Medications
- Lifestyle changes
- Corticosteroid injections
- Surgical assessment where appropriate
Spinal injuries and trauma
Spinal injuries can range from minor soft tissue injuries through to fractures and conditions requiring urgent medical attention.
Common spinal injuries:
- Prolapsed (Herniated) Disc
Occurs when disc material bulges and places pressure on nearby nerves. - Whiplash
A soft tissue injury commonly associated with motor vehicle accidents. - Spinal Fractures
Breaks in the vertebrae that may result from trauma or conditions such as osteoporosis. - Spondylolysis & Spondylolisthesis
Stress injuries affecting the vertebrae, commonly seen in young athletes. - Spinal Cord Injuries
Serious injuries affecting the nerves within the spinal canal.
Signs you should seek medical advice:
- Back pain following a fall, accident or sporting injury
- Difficulty walking
- Numbness or weakness in the legs
- Loss of balance
- Persistent symptoms that are not improving
- Significant pain affecting daily activities
Treatment options
Treatment depends on the nature and severity of the injury and may include:
- Rest and activity modification
- Physiotherapy
- Pain management
- Rehabilitation
- Surgical intervention where appropriate
Surgical treatment for spinal conditions
Most people with back pain will not require surgery.
When symptoms are severe, persistent, or caused by specific structural problems within the spine, surgical treatment may be considered.
Common procedures include:
Decompression Surgery
Reduces pressure on nerves by removing tissue or bone contributing to compression.
Spinal Fusion
Stabilises part of the spine by joining two or more vertebrae together.
Disc Replacement
Replaces a damaged spinal disc with an artificial implant.
Stabilisation Procedures
May be used following certain spinal fractures or traumatic injuries.
Your specialist will discuss the benefits, risks and suitability of surgery based on your individual circumstances.
Rehabilitation and recovery
Rehabilitation is an important part of many treatment plans.
Depending on your condition, recovery may involve physiotherapy, strengthening programs, mobility training and support from allied health professionals to help you return to everyday activities as safely as possible.
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How to access orthopaedic care
If you'd like to see one of our orthopaedic specialists, speak with your GP about a referral. Your GP can discuss your symptoms, treatment history and whether a referral to an orthopaedic specialist may be appropriate.
Your patient journey: from referral to recovery
Slide through to understand your treatment journey from booking your GP in for an initial appointment, all the way through to rehabilitation and ongoing management.
Back pain FAQs
Receiving a referral to an orthopaedic specialist may raise questions for you. Find answers to some commonly asked questions here.