Sciatica and spinal pain together cover a range of presentations — lumbar disc-related pain with leg symptoms, lumbar canal stenosis, post-surgical spinal rehabilitation, and chronic spinal pain. Our physiotherapists work with adults from across Melbourne's west at our three clinics. To book, call (03) 9746 6852 or book online.
Common spinal presentations
- Sciatica — lumbar nerve-root irritation with leg pain, numbness or tingling
- Lumbar disc-related back and leg pain
- Spinal canal stenosis — typically more symptomatic with standing or walking
- Post-surgical spinal rehab — microdiscectomy, decompression, fusion (with surgeon's approval)
- Spondylolysis and spondylolisthesis
- Chronic non-specific low-back pain
- Sacroiliac joint–related pain
First appointment
- History including pattern of pain, leg symptoms, any "red flag" features.
- Examination including neurological screening where leg symptoms are present.
- Discussion of likely cause, whether imaging or specialist review is appropriate.
- Plan with proposed sessions.
- Initial treatment within your tolerance.
Treatment may include
- Progressive exercise — specific to the spinal presentation
- Manual therapy where appropriate
- Hydrotherapy in selected cases
- Education and self-management strategies
- Coordination with surgeons or pain specialists
Locations
- Melton — 7/211–223 Barries Road, Melton West.
- Hoppers Crossing — 369 Morris Road, Hoppers Crossing.
- Sunbury — 16 O'Shanassy Street, Sunbury (by appointment).
Funding and payment options
- Private health insurance — HICAPS on-site for on-the-spot claiming.
- Medicare EPC / Chronic Disease Management — eligible patients with a GP plan.
- WorkCover — for accepted claims related to a workplace injury.
- TAC — for accepted claims related to a motor vehicle accident.
- NDIS — for participants whose plan includes physiotherapy.
- DVA — Gold and White cardholders may be eligible.
- Private payment — accepted. Contact reception for the current fee schedule.
Funding eligibility depends on your circumstances, referral, claim approval and appointment type. Please contact reception if unsure.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need an MRI?
For sciatica without red flag features, imaging often doesn't change early management. Imaging is appropriate when symptoms aren't responding or for surgical decision-making.
Can physio help if I have spinal stenosis?
Sometimes — graded exercise and specific positions can reduce symptoms for some people. We assess and discuss what's likely to help.
Ready to book?
Call (03) 9746 6852 or book online.
Related: back pain · physiotherapy · hydrotherapy · all services
Reviewed by Joseph Louka, AHPRA-registered Physiotherapist (Principal Physiotherapist) · Last reviewed 2026-05-29.
