Your spinal column is more than just a stack of bones — it’s the core of everything you do, from walking and lifting to simply sitting. In this blog, we break down the spinal column, bust common myths, and reveal how physiotherapy can be the game-changer for back pain and spinal health.

Let’s Talk About the Spine — The Unsung Hero of Your Body

When most people think of their spinal column, they just picture their back. But this incredible structure is way more than a bony column. It’s your central support system, the bridge between your brain and body, and the protector of your spinal cord. Yet somehow, it rarely gets the attention it deserves — until it starts hurting.

Sound familiar?

That’s when the “Google spiral” starts: bulging discs, degenerative changes, scoliosis, spinal stenosis… It all sounds scary, but the good news is that many spinal issues are treatable — and often preventable — with the right physiotherapy approach.

What Is the Spinal Column, Exactly?

The spinal column (aka your vertebral column) is a series of 33 bones (vertebrae) stacked on top of each other. These bones are divided into five regions:

Between most of these vertebrae are intervertebral discs – think of them as shock absorbers that help the spinal column move and carry loads. Add in muscles, ligaments, joints, and nerves, and you’ve got a highly mobile yet delicate system.

Common Spinal Column Conditions Physios See

Here’s a quick overview of some of the most common spinal problems we treat in the clinic:

🔹 Disc Injuries (e.g. herniation or “slipped” discs)

These occur when a disc bulges out and presses on nearby nerves. Symptoms might include back pain, numbness, tingling, or even shooting leg pain (sciatica).

🔹 Facet Joint Sprains

The facet joints connect each vertebra to the next. These can get inflamed from poor posture, sudden movement, or overuse.

🔹 Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD)

This is a natural part of ageing, where the discs lose hydration and height. It sounds scary but often doesn’t cause symptoms unless it compresses a nerve.

🔹 Spinal Stenosis

This is a narrowing of the spinal canal, often linked to age, which can cause nerve compression and leg symptoms.

🔹 Postural Back Pain

Prolonged sitting, slouching, and poor ergonomics can cause muscle fatigue and pain, especially in the neck and lower back.

Why Physiotherapy Works Wonders for the Spinal Column

Forget the quick fixes and short-term pain relief – spinal health needs a whole-body, long-term strategy. Physiotherapy helps by:

✅ Reducing Pain and Inflammation

Through manual therapy, dry needling, soft tissue release, and taping techniques.

✅ Improving Mobility and Flexibility

Spinal stiffness responds really well to targeted mobilisation and stretching.

✅ Strengthening Core and Postural Muscles

A stronger core supports the spinal column and reduces the load on discs and joints.

✅ Correcting Movement Patterns

Your physio will identify and correct poor movement habits that keep causing flare-ups.

✅ Educating and Empowering You

Understanding your condition is key. We teach you what’s safe to do (and what’s not), so you stay in control.

Case Study: Meet Brian – A Classic Example of Spinal Recovery Done Right

Brian, a 58-year-old accountant from Belrose, came to the clinic with ongoing lower back pain that had worsened after moving office furniture over the weekend. He described a dull ache that radiated into his right hip and thigh, especially after sitting for long periods. He was worried it might be a disc injury.

After a thorough assessment, we identified the root cause: a combination of lumbar disc irritation and gluteal muscle weakness, made worse by years of sitting and poor lifting technique.

🎯 Brian’s Physio Treatment Plan:

Within four weeks, Brian reported 70% improvement. By the eight-week mark, he was pain-free, back to light gym sessions, and moving office furniture the right way this time.

Simple Stretches to Keep Your Spine Happy

Here are three physio-approved movements to add into your daily routine:

🧘‍♀️ 1. Cat-Cow Stretch (for mobility)

🪢 2. Knee-to-Chest Stretch (for lower back release)

🏹 3. Thoracic Extension Over Foam Roller (for mid-back posture)

Myths Busted: What People Get Wrong About the Spine

Let’s clear up a few things:

❌ “I need a scan to know what’s wrong.”

Not always. Many back issues don’t show up clearly on scans, and even scary-sounding findings (like disc bulges) are often seen in people with no pain. Your symptoms, movement, and history tell us much more.

❌ “If I have back pain, I should rest completely.”

Nope! Movement is medicine. While you might need to modify some activities, complete rest usually makes things worse.

❌ “I’ll need surgery.”

Surgery is rarely the first option. Most spinal issues respond well to conservative physiotherapy treatment.

When to See a Physio for Spinal Pain

Here are some signs it’s time to book in:

Don’t wait until it’s severe – early treatment is far more effective (and cheaper) than dealing with chronic issues.

Looking After Your Spine: Everyday Tips That Work

Final Thoughts: Your Spine Is Resilient – Let’s Keep It That Way

The spinal column cops a lot – sitting, lifting, twisting, sleeping wrong – but it’s also incredibly strong and adaptable. The key is knowing how to care for it, and that’s where physiotherapy shines.

Whether you’re in pain now or just want to future-proof your spine, working with a physio can transform how you move and feel. We’re not just treating pain – we’re helping you build a stronger, smarter spine for life.

✅ Call to Action: Don’t Let Back Pain Run the Show

If your spine’s been giving you grief, don’t tough it out. Book an appointment with one of our experienced physiotherapists today and start feeling better, moving better, and living pain-free.

👉 Book Online Now or call us on 9806 3077 – your spine will thank you.

References and Further Reading: