Back Arthritis
Back Arthritis – Expert Physiotherapy Care
Back arthritis, also known as spinal osteoarthritis or facet joint arthritis, is a common condition where the joints and discs of the spine degenerate over time. This can lead to stiffness, chronic pain, and reduced mobility. Physiotherapy plays a vital role in managing symptoms, improving function, and slowing further degeneration by strengthening the supporting muscles and correcting movement patterns.
Our physiotherapists provide evidence-based assessment and personalised treatment programs to help you move comfortably, reduce pain, and maintain an active lifestyle.
Common Symptoms of Back Arthritis
Persistent aching or stiffness in the lower, mid, or upper back
Pain that worsens with activity or prolonged standing/sitting
Reduced spinal flexibility and rotation
Muscle tightness around affected joints
Pain radiating into the buttocks or upper back
Increased discomfort in the morning or after inactivity
Difficulty bending, lifting, or twisting
How Physiotherapy Helps
Physiotherapy addresses both the symptoms and contributing factors of back arthritis, including:
✔ Manual Therapy & Joint Mobilisation
Restores spinal movement, reduces stiffness and relieves discomfort around arthritic joints.
✔ Muscle Strengthening & Core Stabilisation
Strengthens the muscles supporting the spine, reducing load on degenerating joints and improving posture.
✔ Posture & Movement Correction
Teaches safe bending, lifting and sitting strategies to reduce stress on arthritic segments.
✔ Stretching & Flexibility Programs
Maintains spinal mobility and prevents stiffness, particularly in the morning or after prolonged inactivity.
✔ Pain Management & Soft Tissue Therapy
Reduces muscle tightness, spasm, and secondary tension caused by joint degeneration.
✔ Exercise-Based Arthritis Management
Guided low-impact exercises to maintain function, improve endurance, and prevent further degeneration.
Areas We Treat for Back Arthritis
Our physiotherapy programs are tailored to the type and location of spinal arthritis, including:
• Lumbar Spine Arthritis
Pain and stiffness in the lower back affecting bending, lifting, and walking.
• Thoracic Spine Arthritis
Mid-back stiffness that can affect posture, breathing, and shoulder movement.
• Cervical Spine Arthritis
Neck pain, stiffness, or limited rotation affecting daily activities and head movements.
• Facet Joint Arthritis
Localised joint pain often worsened by extension or rotation.
• Disc-Related Degeneration
Degenerated discs causing secondary muscular tension and reduced spinal mobility.
• Chronic Muscle Tension from Arthritis
Muscles overcompensating for stiff or painful joints, leading to trigger points and fatigue.
• Postural & Ergonomic Strain
Pain due to long-term posture issues, desk work, or improper lifting techniques.
Your Personalised Physiotherapy Plan
Every patient receives a treatment plan tailored to their symptoms, goals, and level of arthritis. Treatment may include:
Hands-on joint mobilisation
Muscle strengthening and core stability exercises
Postural and ergonomic advice
Flexibility and mobility training
Home exercise programs
Activity modification strategies
Guidance for daily tasks and work demands
The goal is to reduce pain, restore function, and maintain independence in daily activities.
When to Seek Physiotherapy
Book an assessment if you experience:
Persistent back stiffness or pain
Reduced spinal mobility
Difficulty performing everyday tasks
Muscle tension around arthritic joints
Pain flare-ups with activity or long periods of sitting/standing
Early physiotherapy intervention can help manage symptoms, improve function, and slow the progression of arthritis.
Book Your Back Arthritis Assessment
If back arthritis is affecting your quality of life, our physiotherapists can provide expert assessment, pain relief strategies, and personalised exercise programs to keep you moving comfortably.
Contact us today to book your appointment.
