Back and neck problems can affect everyday movement, work, exercise and sport. Symptoms may include pain, stiffness or difficulty with particular movements or activities.
The location of symptoms alone does not establish their cause. Assessment considers how the problem started, how symptoms behave, relevant movement and function, and other findings that may help guide appropriate management.
When physiotherapy assessment may be appropriate
Physiotherapy assessment may be appropriate when back or neck symptoms are affecting normal activity, movement, work, exercise or sport, or when symptoms are not settling as expected.
The assessment helps clarify the clinical presentation, identify clinically relevant factors and determine whether physiotherapy management may be appropriate.
What rehabilitation may involve
Management depends on the individual presentation. Where appropriate, this may include advice, movement or exercise, progressive strengthening, activity modification and other physiotherapy interventions based on the assessment findings.
Rehabilitation can be progressed according to symptoms, function and the demands of the activities the person is working towards.
When further assessment may be needed
Some presentations require medical investigation or assessment outside physiotherapy. If the history or clinical findings indicate that another healthcare professional or further investigation is appropriate, referral should take priority.