Lower Back Pain Chiropractor in Adelaide

That deep ache when you straighten up after sitting, the morning stiffness, the catch when you bend or lift? Most lower back pain is mechanical, and it tends to respond to a clear assessment and the right plan. At Stapleton Chiropractic we start with a thorough hands-on assessment, explain what we find in plain language, and talk through your options.

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Prefer to talk first? Call us. No obligation.

Chiropractic care is provided subject to clinical assessment and individual suitability. Individual responses to care vary.

Dr Sam Johnson (Chiropractor), Principal Chiropractor at Stapleton Chiropractic Adelaide
Dr Sam Johnson (Chiropractor) Principal Chiropractor B.Sc.(Chiro), M.Chiro · Macquarie University
Australian Chiropractors Association Member
Dr Sam Johnson (Chiropractor) talking with a patient at Stapleton Chiropractic, Plympton Park
A Message from Dr Sam (Chiropractor)

If lower back pain has been nagging you on the commute home, getting in the way of work, sleep, or training, you are not alone, and you do not have to figure it out on your own.

My job is to assess properly, explain what is going on in plain language, and walk you through your options. No lock-in plans. The decision is always yours.

Not sure whether chiropractic is the right fit? Call and ask. I am happy to point you in the right direction either way.

Dr Sam Johnson (Chiropractor)

Chiropractic care focuses on the assessment and management of musculoskeletal conditions. Individual responses vary.

Practical things worth knowing

💳All Major Health Funds Accepted 🅿️Free On-Site Parking 🕖Open 6 days, early & lateMon-Fri 7am-7pm · Sat 8am-12pm 🏛️Established in Adelaide, 1972 Registered Chiropractor · ACA member 📍528 Marion Road, Plympton Park

What does a chiropractor do for lower back pain?

A chiropractor assesses and provides hands-on care for mechanical lower back pain. At Stapleton Chiropractic, Dr Sam Johnson (Chiropractor) begins with a thorough examination, then may use spinal mobilisation or manipulation, soft-tissue techniques and a tailored exercise plan. Research suggests these may help manage symptoms associated with lower back pain; individual responses to treatment vary.

*All care is provided subject to clinical assessment and individual suitability. Individual responses to treatment vary.

Lower back pain is discomfort or pain in the lumbar region of the spine. It is one of the most common health complaints among Australian adults, with research suggesting most episodes are classed as non-specific mechanical lower back pain. A chiropractic assessment may help identify mechanical factors that could be contributing to your pain.

Does this sound familiar?

Lower back pain is one of the most common musculoskeletal conditions in Australia, affecting around 1 in 6 Australians (Australian Institute of Health and Welfare).[11] Presentations vary widely. Lower back pain is often classed as non-specific mechanical lower back pain, which means that on assessment a single structure cannot always be pinpointed as the sole driver. Identifying which mechanical patterns may be contributing in your case is part of what guides care. The patterns below outline how lower back pain commonly presents. If one feels like your experience, tap it for a plain-English explanation.

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“I bent over to pick something up and couldn’t straighten back up.” Tap to learn more ▾

A sudden episode of lower back pain triggered by a lift, twist, or bend, often with protective muscle spasm that locks you into a flexed posture, may indicate acute mechanical lower back pain. This pattern sometimes involves a lumbar facet joint, a muscle strain, or an early disc-related presentation. Most acute episodes settle with appropriate care and graded movement, though individual responses vary.

General information only. This is not a diagnosis and does not replace a proper clinical assessment. Individual presentations vary.

🪑
“My lower back seizes up after a day at the desk.” Tap to learn more ▾

Stiffness that builds across a workday and eases once you move, stand, or walk may indicate postural and mechanical contributors, including prolonged sitting, reduced hip mobility, and deconditioning of the deep core and gluteal muscles. Many desk workers describe the pattern of feeling okay in the morning, seizing up by 3 pm, and then loosening up on the walk to the car.

General information only. This is not a diagnosis and does not replace a proper clinical assessment. Individual presentations vary.

🛏️
“I’m stiff and sore for the first 30 minutes after getting out of bed.” Tap to learn more ▾

Lower back stiffness in the first part of the morning that eases with movement may indicate mechanical contributors such as lumbar joint stiffness, age-related change, or patterns related to sleep posture and mattress support. Morning stiffness that lasts longer than an hour or comes with other joint involvement may warrant a GP review to help exclude inflammatory causes.

General information only. This is not a diagnosis and does not replace a proper clinical assessment. Individual presentations vary.

🦵
“The pain starts in my back and shoots into my glute or down my leg.” Tap to learn more ▾

Lower back pain that radiates into the buttock, thigh, or further down the leg may indicate a lumbar nerve-root presentation, often linked to a disc or facet joint. This pattern is commonly described as sciatica when the pain travels below the knee and may involve pins and needles or weakness. It warrants a careful assessment with a neurological screen. See our slipped disc and sciatica page for a deeper look at this pattern.

General information only. This is not a diagnosis and does not replace a proper clinical assessment. Individual presentations vary.

Yes, chiropractors in Adelaide commonly assess and manage lower back pain, from a sudden acute episode through to long-standing recurring patterns. At Stapleton Chiropractic, we focus on identifying whether mechanical factors in your spine, pelvis, or hips may be contributing, screening for anything that warrants urgent medical attention, and discussing options based on what we find. A detailed assessment is the starting point.

Not sure what an assessment involves? Learn what happens during your first visit ↓

What to Expect at Your First Visit

Your first visit is a 30-minute consultation costing $69. It includes a thorough hands-on assessment of your lower back, pelvis, and hips, a red flag screen, a plain-language explanation of findings, and treatment on the same day where clinically appropriate. No referral is needed, and the decision about care is always yours.

Allow up to 30 minutes for a comprehensive initial consultation. Here is how it works.

1

You Tell Us

We listen carefully, ask the right questions, and build a clear picture of what has been going on with your lower back.

Patient consultation for lower back pain at Stapleton Chiropractic Plympton Park Adelaide
2

We Assess

Hands-on testing of your lumbar spine, pelvis, and hips, a functional movement screen (bending, sitting, standing, walking), and where appropriate a neurological screen to help identify what may be contributing to your lower back pain.

Physical assessment for lower back pain at Stapleton Chiropractic Adelaide
3

We Explain

We walk you through our findings and your options in plain language. If imaging is recommended, we will explain why and discuss your options.

X-rays are only taken with your agreement, and where eligible, may be bulk billed.*

Dr Sam Johnson (Chiropractor) reviewing lower back pain assessment findings with patient
4

Care May Begin

Where clinically appropriate, care may begin on your first visit to help support relief.*

We offer both traditional hands-on chiropractic techniques and gentle, low-force approaches, tailored to your comfort. Care only proceeds with your consent.

Chiropractic care for lower back pain at Stapleton Chiropractic Plympton Park

Ready to Get Started?

Your first visit takes about 30 minutes. No referral needed, no lock-in plans. The decision is always yours.

Book Your First Visit

*Subject to clinical assessment and suitability criteria. Bulk billing subject to eligibility criteria and clinical need.

How much does a chiropractor for lower back pain cost in Adelaide?

Your first visit is over 40% below the South Australian average.

Initial consultation
$69
Stapleton Chiropractic
$122
SA average
Standard visit
$60
Stapleton Chiropractic
$71
SA average
Save over 40% on your first visit
Book Your First Visit

Source: Australian Chiropractors Association Consultation Fee Survey 2025 (SA data).

Quick answers before you book

Do I need a GP referral?

No referral needed. Chiropractors are primary contact practitioners, so you can book directly.

Will the treatment hurt?

Techniques are tailored to your comfort, with gentle and low-force options available. Dr Sam Johnson (Chiropractor) explains everything before proceeding, and nothing happens without your consent.

How long is the first appointment?

About 30 minutes. A thorough assessment of your lower back, not a rushed adjustment.

Do you accept private health insurance?

Yes, all major health funds accepted. We provide a receipt at the end of your visit so you can lodge your rebate via your fund's app.

*All care is provided subject to clinical assessment and individual suitability. Individual responses to treatment vary.

Care that fits your day

7am–7pm Mon–Fri
Saturday mornings
🚗Free parking
🧭Easy access via Marion Road
Before/after work, school drop-off & errands
📍
Stapleton Chiropractic
528 Marion Road, Plympton Park SA 5038

Ready to Get Started? We're Ready When You Are.

Choose a time that works for you. No referral needed.

Your First Visit
Dr Sam Johnson, Chiropractor at Stapleton Chiropractic Adelaide

Dr Sam Johnson (Chiropractor)

B.Sc.(Chiro), M.Chiro.(Macq)

$69

Initial Consultation

Up to 30 minutes, including full assessment

Book Your First Visit
Open 6 days All major health funds Free parking

Prefer to call? (08) 8297 5277

Text: 0400 105 454  |  Email: wecanhelp@stapletonchiropractic.com.au

You will receive a confirmation email with all details immediately after booking.

What causes lower back pain?

Lower back pain can involve many structures, including muscles, facet joints, the sacroiliac joint, intervertebral discs, and referred sources from the hip. Lower back pain is often classed as non-specific mechanical lower back pain, which means a single structure cannot always be identified as the sole driver in a given person. Identifying which mechanical patterns may be contributing is what guides the approach.

Common mechanical contributors we screen for at Stapleton Chiropractic:

  • Prolonged sitting and desk work: sitting loads the lumbar discs more than standing, and long hours in a seated posture progressively stiffen the hips and reduce engagement of the deep core and gluteal muscles. Desk-based lower back pain is one of the most common presentations we see.
  • Lifting, bending, and twisting under load: repeated or sudden bending, twisting, or lifting places combined flexion, rotation, and compression on the lumbar spine. This is a well-documented mechanism for acute lower back pain and can involve muscles, facet joints, or disc structures.
  • Lumbar facet joint dysfunction: restricted or irritated facet joints in the lumbar spine can produce localised lower back pain that often worsens with extension, rotation, and standing for long periods, and may refer pain into the buttock or upper thigh.
  • Disc-related pain and sciatica: disc bulges, herniations, and annular tears may irritate nearby nerves and contribute to lower back pain with or without leg symptoms. See our slipped disc and sciatica page for a dedicated look at this pattern.
  • Sacroiliac and pelvic dysfunction: the sacroiliac joints and pelvic girdle are common but often under-recognised contributors to lower back pain, particularly during and after pregnancy, in active populations, and following trauma.
  • Deconditioning and lifestyle factors: reduced physical activity, low aerobic fitness, poor sleep, and high stress are each associated with higher rates of lower back pain and slower recovery. These are modifiable factors that may form part of a longer-term management plan.

Who gets lower back pain?

Lower back pain affects people across all ages and walks of life. In Adelaide, we commonly see these groups:

Tap the one that sounds like you.

👷

Tradies & Manual Workers

Heavy lifting under flexion, twisting, sustained bending, vibration

Tap
🚚

Truck & Delivery Drivers

Prolonged sitting, vibration, repeated in-and-out lifting

Tap
💻

Office & Desk Workers

Prolonged sitting, static flexion, deconditioning

Tap
🏥

Nurses & Aged Care Workers

Patient handling, bending, twisting, night shift fatigue

Tap
📦

Warehouse & Logistics Workers

Repeated lifting, bending, twisting, time pressure

Tap
🏋️

Gym & Strength Athletes

Heavy deadlifting, squatting, spinal loading under fatigue

Tap
👷

Tradies & Manual Workers

What you might be feeling:
  • A sudden sharp pain mid-lift that stops you straightening up
  • A deep ache across the lower back after a day of bending or shovelling
  • Stiffness that builds across the working week
  • A grumble you keep working through that no longer settles on days off

Construction, landscaping, plumbing, and trade work combine heavy load with bending, twisting, and vibration. This is a well-documented mechanism for acute lumbar injury, and repeated low-grade load across a career also contributes to ongoing stiffness. If your back gives way mid-job, or the grumble becomes a sharp pain you cannot work through, it is worth getting it properly assessed.

The Stapleton Chiropractic connection:

We regularly assess tradies and manual workers with lower back pain. We examine the lumbar spine, pelvis, and hips, screen red flags, and discuss a plan aimed at supporting your return to work. Individual responses vary.

A proper assessment:

Working through back pain week after week deserves a careful look, not another tube of heat cream. A proper assessment gives you a clear picture of what may be contributing.

🚚

Truck & Delivery Drivers

What you might be feeling:
  • An ache that builds through hours behind the wheel
  • A sharp catch climbing in and out of the cab
  • Stiffness after repeated lifts in and out of the vehicle
  • Pain that eases on days off and returns within hours of restarting

Hours behind the wheel combine sustained flexion, whole-body vibration, and load, and delivery roles add repeated lifts in and out of vehicles, often in awkward positions. Lower back pain that builds across a shift and worsens on long drives is a pattern we see regularly.

The Stapleton Chiropractic connection:

We see truck, courier, and delivery drivers with lower back pain regularly. Assessment focuses on lumbar and hip mechanics plus practical seat, break, and handling guidance for your route.

A proper assessment:

If your work keeps you behind the wheel, back pain that builds every shift is not something to wait out. An assessment helps identify what may be contributing and what can be modified.

💻

Office & Desk Workers

What you might be feeling:
  • Feeling fine in the morning but seized up by mid-afternoon
  • An ache when you stand after a long meeting
  • Pain that spikes after the drive home
  • A stiff first step out of bed the next morning

Sitting loads the lumbar discs more than standing, and long hours in a seated posture progressively stiffen the hips and reduce engagement of the deep core and gluteal muscles. Desk-based lower back pain is one of the most common presentations we see.

The Stapleton Chiropractic connection:

We assess your lumbar mechanics, hip mobility, and how your current activity and work habits may be contributing, with practical workstation and movement guidance you can apply that afternoon.

A proper assessment:

Desk-related lower back pain has well-understood contributors. A proper assessment helps identify which ones apply in your case.

🏥

Nurses & Aged Care Workers

What you might be feeling:
  • An ache that follows a heavy patient-handling shift
  • Pain that sharpens during bending and lifting tasks
  • Symptoms compounded by rotating rosters and disturbed sleep
  • A pattern that has crept up across weeks rather than started suddenly

Patient handling is one of the highest-risk occupational activities for the lumbar spine, and rotating shifts with disrupted sleep compound the load. We assess the specific load patterns that develop from your role.

The Stapleton Chiropractic connection:

We regularly see nursing, aged care, and allied health workers with lower back pain. We work around night and weekend schedules with our extended Monday to Friday evening and Saturday morning hours.

A proper assessment:

Your body carries the load for others. A proper assessment helps us understand what may be contributing and recommend care that fits your roster.

📦

Warehouse & Logistics Workers

What you might be feeling:
  • A flare after a high-picking or heavy-lifting shift
  • A sharp catch during twisting lifts
  • An ache that builds through repeat pallet or order work
  • Symptoms worse at night after a physically demanding day

Pallet work, order picking, and repetitive lifting under time pressure combine bending, twisting, and compression on the lumbar spine. Lower back pain that flares after demanding shifts is a pattern we see often, and an assessment helps clarify what may be contributing before it worsens.

The Stapleton Chiropractic connection:

We assess warehouse and logistics workers with lower back pain regularly. Examination focuses on the lumbar spine, pelvis, and hip mechanics, with practical lifting and load guidance.

A proper assessment:

Back pain that flares after every big shift should not be ignored. A proper assessment gives you a clearer picture of what is happening and what your options look like.

🏋️

Gym & Strength Athletes

What you might be feeling:
  • A sharp pain during a heavy deadlift or squat
  • Post-session tightness through the lower back and hips
  • Stiffness that limits your hinge or squat depth
  • Difficulty getting back to full training volume after a flare

Squats, deadlifts, loaded carries, and Olympic-style lifts all place significant load on the lumbar spine. Fatigue, poor sleep, and progression errors can drive technique drift and lead to flare-ups.

The Stapleton Chiropractic connection:

We work with lifters and active adults regularly. We assess lumbar mechanics, load tolerance, and rehabilitation pathways so you can continue training around the issue where clinically appropriate.

A proper assessment:

If training is being limited by your lower back, a proper assessment can identify what may be contributing and what a graded return to load may look like.

Economic impact: Lower back pain is the single leading cause of years lived with disability globally (Global Burden of Disease Study)[10] and consistently ranks among the largest contributors to disability in Australia (Australian Institute of Health and Welfare).[11] Musculoskeletal injuries account for approximately 35.5% of all work-related injury and disease claims in Australia (Safe Work Australia).[12]

*All care is provided subject to clinical assessment and individual suitability. Individual responses to treatment vary.

🚨

When to seek urgent care for lower back pain

General information only. Not a substitute for medical advice

Most lower back pain is not caused by serious medical conditions, but some warning signs warrant prompt medical assessment. If any of the features below apply, contact your GP, call healthdirect on 1800 022 222, or call 000 for urgent symptoms.

🚽

New bladder or bowel changes

New difficulty passing or controlling urine, new bowel incontinence, or new numbness around the saddle region (inner thighs, groin, buttocks) warrants immediate emergency assessment. This combination of features in the context of back pain may indicate a serious medical emergency. Go directly to a hospital emergency department.

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Rapidly progressing leg weakness

Rapidly worsening weakness in one or both legs, a foot that is starting to drag or slap when you walk, or new difficulty lifting the foot or toes needs urgent medical assessment. Do not wait to see if it settles.

🪑

Saddle area numbness

New loss of sensation in the area that would contact a saddle (inner thighs, around the back passage, groin), particularly when combined with bladder or bowel symptoms, should be assessed immediately in an emergency department.

⚠️

Severe pain with trauma

Severe lower back or leg pain following a fall, motor vehicle accident, or other significant trauma warrants prompt medical assessment before any manual therapy, to exclude fracture or serious injury.

🌡️

Fever, weight loss, or night pain

Back or leg pain with fever, unexplained weight loss, night pain that wakes you from sleep, or a history of cancer should be assessed by a GP to help exclude infection or other age-related conditions before starting conservative care.

📅

New back pain under 20 or over 55

A first episode of significant lower back pain before age 20, or a new pattern after age 55, is worth a GP review to help identify whether further assessment or imaging is warranted before starting conservative care.

📞

Call 000 or go to an emergency department immediately if you experience new bladder or bowel changes, saddle numbness, rapidly progressing leg weakness, or severe pain following significant trauma. These features must not be delayed.

Your first visit at Stapleton Chiropractic includes a detailed lower back and neurological history. If anything in your presentation suggests you should be assessed by a GP or medical services before starting chiropractic care, we will tell you and support referral.

💚 The health and wellbeing of you, your family, and your friends is our priority.

Could your lower back pain be coming from a disc?

Sometimes yes, often no. Lower back pain and disc problems overlap, but the majority of mechanical lower back pain is not driven by a disc. When leg pain, pins and needles, or weakness accompany the back pain, the likelihood of disc involvement goes up and a more detailed assessment is warranted.

“Slipped disc” is one of the most searched phrases for lower back pain, but it is a lay description rather than a clinical diagnosis. Discs do not actually slip; what can happen is that a disc bulges, herniates (prolapses), or develops a tear, which may irritate nearby nerves and contribute to lower back pain, buttock pain, or leg pain (sciatica).

Not every episode of lower back pain is a disc problem. Research suggests the majority of mechanical lower back pain involves muscles, facet joints, and the sacroiliac joint rather than the disc itself. The presence of leg pain that travels below the knee, pins and needles, or weakness shifts the picture toward a disc-related presentation and may warrant a more detailed neurological screen.

At your assessment we work through a focused history (mechanism of onset, pain pattern, what helps and hurts), a lumbar and pelvic examination, and where appropriate a neurological screen (reflexes, sensation, strength, straight-leg raise) to help clarify whether a disc may be contributing. Where it may be, we discuss options including conservative care, coordination with your GP, and imaging where indicated.

If your pain pattern sounds more disc-driven than general lower back pain, our dedicated page covers disc and sciatica presentations in more detail. Read more about how we assess and manage slipped disc and sciatica →

How may chiropractic care help with lower back pain?

For mechanical lower back pain, contemporary clinical guidelines including the UK NICE NG59 guideline and the US American College of Physicians guideline recommend non-pharmacological care as first-line management.[1][6] Spinal manipulation, mobilisation, and exercise are specifically listed as evidence-informed conservative options. Chiropractic care delivers these within a single provider, and where indicated we coordinate with GPs, imaging services, and specialist opinion.

Care is hands-on and tailored to your presentation. Depending on assessment findings and your preference, management may include lumbar mobilisation or manipulation, flexion-distraction or traction-style techniques for suspected disc-related presentations, targeted soft-tissue work through the gluteal and hip region, neural mobilisation, and a graduated exercise program. Low-force and gentler approaches are available if you are cautious, in acute pain, or pregnant. Nothing proceeds without your consent.

Your initial assessment

Your initial assessment includes a thorough history (mechanism of onset, pain pattern, what helps and hurts, red flag screen), a focused lumbar and hip examination, and a neurological screen (reflexes, sensation, strength, straight-leg raise, slump test where appropriate). We also look at how you move (walking, bending, sitting, and standing) because the movement signature often gives us more information than any single test.

Tailored management approaches

Based on your assessment findings, a management plan may combine spinal manipulation or mobilisation, flexion-distraction, soft-tissue work across the gluteal and hip region, neural mobilisation, and a graduated exercise program. The 2019 BMJ systematic review by Rubinstein et al. (47 RCTs, 9,211 participants) found spinal manipulative therapy produced similar effects to other recommended therapies for chronic low back pain, including patients with referred leg pain.[4]

Gentle and low-force options available

Not everyone is comfortable with traditional manual adjustments, particularly during an acute flare or in pregnancy. We offer a range of gentle, low-force techniques including instrument-assisted adjustments, mobilisation, flexion-distraction, and pregnancy-appropriate approaches. We discuss your options before any care begins, and nothing proceeds without your consent.

Why this matters for you: Lower back pain presentations vary widely. Some are acute and settle with graduated care, some are chronic and benefit from ongoing movement and load management, and a small number need imaging, specialist opinion, or surgical review. At Stapleton Chiropractic we offer both chiropractic care and cold laser therapy under the one roof, so Dr Sam Johnson (Chiropractor) can assess your presentation and discuss which approach, or combination, may be most appropriate for you.

If your presentation suggests a different type of care would suit you better, we will let you know and can refer to an appropriate practitioner. Interested in whether cold laser may be appropriate for your lower back pain? Simply mention it during your initial consultation with Dr Sam.

*All care is provided subject to clinical assessment and individual suitability. Individual responses to treatment vary.

Comparing your options for lower back pain

Tap a tab below to see how each approach compares

ChiropracticPhysiotherapyCold Laser Therapy
Primary focusLumbar joint function, movement patterns, muscle tension contributors, posture and load toleranceExercise rehabilitation, movement retraining, graded return to activity and loadSoft-tissue inflammation and pain signalling at a cellular level via targeted light energy
Common techniquesSpinal manipulation, mobilisation, soft-tissue work, instrument-assisted adjustments, tailored exerciseTherapeutic exercise, motor-control retraining, dry needling, manual therapyPhotobiomodulation applied to the lumbar paraspinals and surrounding soft tissue
Evidence for LBPNICE NG59 and ACP recommend non-pharmacological care first-line, with SMT within multimodal options; 2019 BMJ SR (Rubinstein et al.) found SMT produced similar effects to recommended therapies for chronic LBPStrong evidence for exercise and graded activity; cognitive-functional approaches show benefit in chronic LBPLower-level evidence for lumbar pain; often used alongside chiropractic care for pain and muscle tension
Referral needed?No. Primary contact practitionerNo. Primary contact practitionerNo. Available here at Stapleton Chiropractic
Typical at StapletonHistory, red flag screen, lumbar examination, movement assessment, manual therapy, exercise prescriptionN/A (we can refer if physiotherapy is more appropriate for your presentation)Multi-Radiance MR5 ACTIV PRO device, applied alongside chiropractic care where clinically appropriate
When to considerMechanical low back pain, stiffness, strain-related presentations, mixed joint + muscle driversPresentations that are primarily exercise-rehab driven, or after an initial chiropractic assessment identifies that focusWhen symptoms are more soft-tissue or inflammatory in nature (muscle, tendon, bursa, or inflammatory conditions more broadly). Offered at Stapleton Chiropractic.
Primary focus
Lumbar joint function, movement patterns, muscle tension contributors, posture and load tolerance
Common techniques
Spinal manipulation, mobilisation, soft-tissue work, instrument-assisted adjustments, tailored exercise
Evidence for LBP
NICE NG59 and ACP recommend non-pharmacological care first-line, with SMT within multimodal options; 2019 BMJ SR (Rubinstein et al.) found SMT produced similar effects to recommended therapies for chronic LBP
Referral needed?
No. Primary contact practitioner
Typical at Stapleton
History, red flag screen, lumbar examination, movement assessment, manual therapy, exercise prescription
When to consider
Mechanical low back pain, stiffness, strain-related presentations, mixed joint + muscle drivers
Primary focus
Exercise rehabilitation, movement retraining, graded return to activity and load
Common techniques
Therapeutic exercise, motor-control retraining, dry needling, manual therapy
Evidence for LBP
Strong evidence for exercise and graded activity; cognitive-functional approaches show benefit in chronic LBP
Referral needed?
No. Primary contact practitioner
Typical at Stapleton
N/A (we can refer if physiotherapy is more appropriate for your presentation)
When to consider
Presentations that are primarily exercise-rehab driven, or after an initial chiropractic assessment identifies that focus
Primary focus
Soft-tissue inflammation and pain signalling at a cellular level via targeted light energy
Common techniques
Photobiomodulation applied to the lumbar paraspinals and surrounding soft tissue
Evidence for LBP
Lower-level evidence for lumbar pain; often used alongside chiropractic care for pain and muscle tension
Referral needed?
No. Available here at Stapleton Chiropractic
Typical at Stapleton
Multi-Radiance MR5 ACTIV PRO device, applied alongside chiropractic care where clinically appropriate
When to consider
When symptoms are more soft-tissue or inflammatory in nature (muscle, tendon, bursa, or inflammatory conditions more broadly). Offered at Stapleton Chiropractic.

Why This Matters for You

At Stapleton Chiropractic we offer both chiropractic and cold laser under one roof, so we can address structural, soft-tissue, and inflammatory components.

If we think a physio, GP, or specialist would serve you better, we’ll tell you. Either way, our goal is to make sure you get the care that’s right for you.

What does the research say about chiropractic for lower back pain?

Contemporary clinical practice guidelines (the UK NICE NG59 guideline and the US American College of Physicians 2017 guideline) recommend non-pharmacological care as first-line management for low back pain with or without sciatica.[1][6] Spinal manipulation, mobilisation, and exercise are specifically listed as evidence-informed conservative options. Chiropractic care delivers these within a single provider, and where indicated we coordinate with GPs, imaging services, and specialist opinion.

The strongest evidence for lower back pain sits with guideline-recommended, multimodal conservative care. The key guidelines and meta-analyses are summarised below.

Guideline 2016/2020

NICE NG59: Low Back Pain and Sciatica Guideline

UK National Institute for Health and Care Excellence guideline on non-invasive management of low back pain and sciatica in people over 16. Recommends considering manual therapy (including spinal manipulation and mobilisation) as part of a treatment package alongside exercise. Cautions against routine imaging for non-specific presentations and highlights conservative management before surgical referral.[1]

Guideline 2017

Qaseem et al. 2017: American College of Physicians Guideline

US clinical practice guideline that strongly recommends non-pharmacological treatment as first-line management for acute, subacute, and chronic low back pain. Options listed include spinal manipulation, exercise, massage, heat, and multidisciplinary rehabilitation, with medication positioned as a secondary option when non-pharmacological care is insufficient.[6]

Meta-Analysis 2017

Paige et al. 2017: SMT for Acute Low Back Pain

Systematic review and meta-analysis of 26 randomised controlled trials (pooled pain analysis from 15 trials, 1,711 patients) on spinal manipulative therapy for acute low back pain. Reported modest short-term improvements in pain and function at up to 6 weeks, with minor transient musculoskeletal harms as the most common adverse event and no serious adverse events reported in the included trials.[5]

Meta-Analysis 2019

Rubinstein et al. 2019: BMJ Meta-Analysis (Chronic LBP)

Systematic review and meta-analysis of 47 RCTs (9,211 participants) on spinal manipulative therapy for chronic low back pain. Found that SMT produced similar effects to other recommended therapies for pain and small improvements in function. Adverse events were generally minor and transient.[4]

*All care is provided subject to clinical assessment and individual suitability. Individual responses to treatment vary.

What the research says

“Consider manual therapy (spinal manipulation, mobilisation or soft-tissue techniques such as massage) for managing low back pain with or without sciatica, but only as part of a treatment package including exercise, with or without psychological therapy.”

NICE Guideline NG59, 2016 (updated 2020)

“Clinicians and patients should initially select non-pharmacologic treatment [for low back pain], including spinal manipulation.”

American College of Physicians Clinical Practice Guideline, Qaseem et al., 2017

Why choose Stapleton Chiropractic for lower back pain?

🤝

Over 50 Years of Trusted Care

Stapleton Chiropractic has been part of the Plympton Park community since 1972. That is over 50 years of continuous operation supporting Adelaide families with their musculoskeletal health. We have seen how chiropractic care has evolved over five decades and we apply that experience to every patient we see.

🎓

Qualified, Registered, and Experienced

Dr Sam Johnson (Chiropractor) holds a Bachelor of Chiropractic Science and Master of Chiropractic from Macquarie University. He is registered with AHPRA and is a member of the Australian Chiropractors Association. Dr Johnson has been with the practice for over 10 years and became Principal Chiropractor in 2021.

Hours, Parking, and Pricing That Work

We are open 7am to 7pm weekdays and Saturday mornings, designed to fit around your work schedule. Free on-site parking. Your initial consultation is $69, well below the South Australian average of $122. All major private health funds accepted. No lock-in plans, no referral required.

Your Care, Your Choice

Whether you are looking for relief now or relief plus answers, your goals are our goals. We respect your autonomy at every step. No commitment to ongoing care, no lock-in plans. Where clinically appropriate, treatment may begin on your first visit.*

*Subject to clinical assessment and individual suitability.

Frequently asked questions about lower back pain

Common questions from patients and from people searching online, answered by Dr Sam Johnson (Chiropractor).

How much does a chiropractor cost at Stapleton Chiropractic?

Your initial consultation is $69, which is over 40% below the South Australian average of $122 (ACA Fee Survey 2025). Standard follow-up visits are $60. All major private health funds accepted, and we provide a receipt at the end of your visit so you can lodge your rebate via your fund’s app.

No lock-in plans, no pressure. See our full pricing and health fund guide for details.

What happens at my first visit for lower back pain?

Allow up to 30 minutes. We take a detailed history (mechanism of onset, pain pattern, what makes it better or worse, a red flag screen) and perform a focused lumbar and neurological examination. We explain our findings in plain language, outline options including when a GP review or imaging may be warranted, and where clinically appropriate, care may begin on your first visit. The decision about care is always yours.

Learn more about what to expect at your first visit.

What does a lower back pain chiropractor do?

A chiropractor assesses how your lower back, pelvis and surrounding muscles are moving, then explains the findings in plain language. At Stapleton Chiropractic, Dr Sam Johnson (Chiropractor) may use spinal mobilisation or manipulation, soft-tissue techniques and a graduated exercise program where clinically appropriate. The aim is to help manage symptoms associated with mechanical lower back pain. Individual responses to treatment vary, and care always follows a clinical assessment.

Is a chiropractor good for lower back pain?

Research suggests chiropractic care, including spinal manipulation, may help manage symptoms associated with non-specific lower back pain, and contemporary clinical guidelines list non-pharmacological care among first-line options.[6] Whether it is suitable for you depends on your individual presentation and is something to discuss at an initial consultation. Individual responses vary.

What can I expect from a lower back chiro appointment in Adelaide?

Your first visit with Dr Sam Johnson (Chiropractor) at our Marion Road clinic in Plympton Park begins with a history and a hands-on assessment of your lower back, pelvis and relevant neurological function. We explain what we find in plain language and discuss the options that may be appropriate for you, so you can decide how to proceed. The decision is always yours.

Should I see my GP first before seeing a chiropractor for lower back pain?

You do not need a GP referral to see a chiropractor in Australia, so either starting point is reasonable. If your lower back pain came on suddenly with any of the red flags listed above (bladder or bowel changes, saddle numbness, rapidly progressing weakness), start with your GP or an emergency department. If it is a more typical mechanical presentation, starting with a chiropractic assessment is a common path, and we will happily coordinate with your GP if imaging or further review is indicated.

Can chiropractic care help with lower back pain?

Outcomes depend on many individual factors, so rather than promising a quick resolution we focus on what chiropractic care may realistically offer: a structured approach to managing lower back pain, including manual therapy, mobilisation, soft-tissue work, and rehabilitation exercises. Research suggests conservative care is a reasonable first-line approach for most presentations, but individual responses vary and some presentations need medical or other appropriate input.

Is chiropractic care suitable for lower back pain?

Many people with lower back pain are managed conservatively and may benefit from hands-on care, but it is not a one-size-fits-all situation. A careful assessment helps identify whether the presentation is appropriate for manual therapy, which techniques are suitable, and whether a gentler or lower-force approach may be more appropriate in your case. Where red flags are present, we direct you to medical services first.

Will my back pain go away on its own?

Research suggests many episodes of lower back pain improve over time, particularly when movement is maintained and aggravating factors are addressed (NICE NG59).[1] That said, “wait and see” is not always the best option, especially if pain is severe or function is affected. A conservative care plan may help shorten recovery and reduce recurrence, and can often be paused or stepped down once you are making good progress.

Do I need an MRI or CT scan before chiropractic treatment?

Not always. Clinical guidelines (including NICE NG59) caution against routine imaging for non-specific lower back pain because scans can reveal changes that may not be related to a person’s symptoms, which is why imaging is guided by clinical assessment. Imaging is indicated when red flags are present, when progress is not being made as expected, or when a specialist opinion is being considered. We are happy to coordinate with your GP on imaging if it is appropriate.

What’s the difference between a muscle strain and a disc problem?

A clinical assessment is the most reliable way to tell the patterns apart. Muscle strains tend to produce localised pain that flares with specific movements and often settles with time and graded movement. Disc-related presentations often (but not always) involve leg pain, pins and needles, or weakness, and may be aggravated by sitting, coughing, or sneezing. Pain that stays localised to the lower back is more commonly muscular, facet-related, or linked to the sacroiliac joint. Our slipped disc, herniated disc and sciatica page covers the disc side of the picture in more detail.

Can chiropractic care help during pregnancy-related back pain?

Pregnancy-related lower back pain is common, particularly in the second and third trimesters, and many pregnant patients see chiropractors for it. We use lower-force, pregnancy-appropriate techniques where clinically indicated. As with any condition, we screen carefully before care begins and coordinate with your GP or obstetric team if anything in your presentation warrants it.

Do you accept my health fund?

All major private health funds accepted. We provide a receipt at the end of your visit so you can claim your rebate via your fund’s app or member portal. The exact rebate amount depends on your level of cover.

Do I need a referral to see a chiropractor?

No. Chiropractors are primary contact practitioners, which means you can book directly without a GP referral. If we believe a referral to your GP or another practitioner would benefit you, we will let you know and support that process.

Will I always need to keep coming back?

Our goal is to help you become as independent as possible. How often you visit, and for how long, is always your decision. We provide recommendations based on your progress and aim to reduce frequency as you improve, but there are no lock-in plans.

Is it okay to keep exercising with lower back pain?

In most cases, staying active is one of the best things you can do for lower back pain. Research from The Lancet recommends exercise as a first-line approach. That does not mean pushing through intense gym sessions. It means gentle movement, walking, swimming, or stretching to keep your back from stiffening up. Avoiding all movement often makes things worse, not better. At Stapleton Chiropractic, we can advise on which activities may help and which to modify during a flare-up.

Why does my lower back hurt more first thing in the morning?

Morning stiffness in the lower back is common and often eases with gentle movement as the day gets going. Overnight, the discs in your lumbar spine rehydrate slightly, which can increase pressure on surrounding structures. Sustained postures during sleep may also contribute if your mattress or sleeping position does not support a neutral spine. If morning stiffness lasts more than an hour or is getting worse over time, it is worth having an assessment to help identify other contributing factors. Your first visit at Stapleton Chiropractic is $69.

*All care is provided subject to clinical assessment and individual suitability. Individual responses to treatment vary.

A calm, confident approach to your care

Dr Sam Johnson (Chiropractor), Principal Chiropractor at Stapleton Chiropractic Plympton Park Adelaide
Dr Sam Johnson (Chiropractor)
Principal Chiropractor
B.Sc.(Chiro), M.Chiro.(Macq)  |  AHPRA Registered

Continuing Stapleton Chiropractic’s 50-year legacy of trusted care in Adelaide’s south. We listen first, explain clearly, and focus on what matters most to you.

Where are you right now?

Choose the path that best describes where you are today.

🔥 Get me out of pain I need relief as soon as possible Tap to learn more

We understand. Lower back pain that flares with every bend, sit, or first step out of bed can make daily life difficult and affect sleep, work, and family life.

Your goals are our goals. Whether you want relief now or relief plus answers, we work to that. Your initial consultation includes a thorough history, hands-on assessment, and a plain-language explanation of what we find. Where clinically appropriate, treatment may begin on your first visit.*

No commitment to ongoing care. No lock-in plans. The decision is always yours.

*Subject to clinical assessment and individual suitability. Individual responses to care vary.

🔍 I want relief and answers I want to understand what is going on Tap to learn more

Not knowing whether your lower back pain is a joint, a muscle, a disc, or something else can be just as frustrating as the pain itself.

Your initial consultation includes a detailed history, red flag screening, a hands-on lumbar and pelvic examination, and a neurological screen (reflexes, sensation, strength, straight-leg raise, slump test where appropriate). Dr Sam walks you through the assessment findings and discusses whether chiropractic care, imaging, a GP referral, or a specialist opinion may be the most appropriate next step.

No lock-in treatment plans. The decision is always yours.

*All care is provided subject to clinical assessment and individual suitability. Individual responses to care vary.

Ready to Get Started? We're Ready When You Are.

Choose a time that works for you. No referral needed.

Your First Visit
Dr Sam Johnson, Chiropractor at Stapleton Chiropractic Adelaide

Dr Sam Johnson (Chiropractor)

B.Sc.(Chiro), M.Chiro.(Macq)

$69

Initial Consultation

Up to 30 minutes, including full assessment

Book Your First Visit
Open 6 days All major health funds Free parking

Prefer to call? (08) 8297 5277

Text: 0400 105 454  |  Email: wecanhelp@stapletonchiropractic.com.au

You will receive a confirmation email with all details immediately after booking.

What conditions may be related to lower back pain?

Lower back pain often overlaps with other spinal and lower-limb presentations. Explore these related concerns.

View References (12 citations)

References

  1. National Institute for Health and Care Excellence. (2016, updated 2020). Low back pain and sciatica in over 16s: assessment and management. NICE Guideline NG59. nice.org.uk
  2. Santilli V, Beghi E, Finucci S. (2006). Chiropractic manipulation in the treatment of acute back pain and sciatica with disc protrusion: a randomized double-blind clinical trial of active and simulated spinal manipulations. The Spine Journal, 6(2):131–137. PMID 16517383. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
  3. McMorland G, Suter E, Casha S, du Plessis SJ, Hurlbert RJ. (2010). Manipulation or microdiskectomy for sciatica? A prospective randomized clinical study. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, 33(8):576–584. PMID 21036279. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
  4. Rubinstein SM, de Zoete A, van Middelkoop M, Assendelft WJJ, de Boer MR, van Tulder MW. (2019). Benefits and harms of spinal manipulative therapy for the treatment of chronic low back pain: systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials. BMJ, 364:l689. PMID 30867144. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
  5. Paige NM, Miake-Lye IM, Booth MS et al. (2017). Association of spinal manipulative therapy with clinical benefit and harm for acute low back pain: systematic review and meta-analysis. JAMA, 317(14):1451–1460. PMID 28399251. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
  6. Qaseem A, Wilt TJ, McLean RM, Forciea MA. (2017). Noninvasive treatments for acute, subacute, and chronic low back pain: a clinical practice guideline from the American College of Physicians. Annals of Internal Medicine, 166(7):514–530. PMID 28192789. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
  7. Bronfort G, Haas M, Evans R, Leininger B, Triano J. (2010). Effectiveness of manual therapies: the UK evidence report. Chiropractic & Osteopathy, 18:3. PMID 20184717. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
  8. Foster NE, Anema JR, Cherkin D et al. (2018). Prevention and treatment of low back pain: evidence, challenges, and promising directions. The Lancet, 391(10137):2368–2383. PMID 29573872. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
  9. Konstantinou K, Dunn KM. (2008). Sciatica: review of epidemiological studies and prevalence estimates. Spine, 33(22):2464–2472. PMID 18923325. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
  10. Global Burden of Disease Study Collaborators. (2020). Global burden of 369 diseases and injuries in 204 countries and territories, 1990–2019. The Lancet, 396(10258):1204–1222.
  11. Australian Institute of Health and Welfare. (2023). Back problems: overview. aihw.gov.au
  12. Safe Work Australia. Musculoskeletal injury statistics. safeworkaustralia.gov.au

Dr Sam Johnson (Chiropractor)

BSc(Chiro), MChiro, Macquarie University

Member, Australian Chiropractors Association

Stapleton Chiropractic | Est. 1972

528 Marion Road, Plympton Park SA 5038

(08) 8297 5277 | wecanhelp@stapletonchiropractic.com.au

Mon–Fri 7am–7pm | Sat 8am–12pm

Last clinically reviewed: April 2026 by Dr Sam Johnson (Chiropractor), B.Sc.(Chiro), M.Chiro.(Macq), AHPRA Registered.

Related: Slipped Disc, Herniated Disc & Sciatica · Headaches & Migraines · Neck Pain · What to Expect at Your First Visit

author avatar
Dr Sam Johnson (Chiropractor)
Dr Sam Johnson (Chiropractor), B.Chiro.Sc (Macq), M.Chiro (Macq), is the Principal Chiropractor and Clinic Director at Stapleton Chiropractic in Plympton Park, Adelaide. He provides evidence-informed chiropractic care with a focus on musculoskeletal health, spinal movement, and functional improvement. Dr Sam Johnson (Chiropractor) works with adults, older adults, and families across all stages of life, supporting concerns such as back pain, neck pain, headaches, and postural issues. He is committed to clear communication, personalised care planning, and long-term patient outcomes.

Last clinically reviewed: 25 April 2026 by Dr Sam Johnson (Chiropractor)