Understanding Lower Back Pain: When to See a Chiro or EP
At Spectrum Health Co, we know how frustrating lower back pain can be. It’s one of the most common issues we help our community manage—and whether the pain has come on suddenly or has been lingering for months, or even years, getting the right treatment is essential for long-term relief.
One of the most common questions we get is:
“Should I see a chiro for back pain or book in with an EP?”
Let’s break it down so you can understand what each profession does, and how we work together to support your recovery.
Why Does Lower Back Pain Happen?
Lower back pain can be caused by many things, including:
Muscle tension or joint restriction
Poor posture or prolonged sitting
Lifting or twisting injuries
Disc issues
Lack of core strength
Chronic conditions like arthritis
No two backs are the same, which is why our team takes a personalised approach to assessing and managing your pain.
How Chiropractic Care Helps with Lower Back Pain
At Spectrum Health Co, our chiropractors take an evidence-based and holistic approach to treating lower back pain. We look beyond the spine and focus on how your entire body moves and functions—because pain rarely exists in isolation.
We take the time to understand the root cause of your pain, not just where it hurts.
Our treatments often include:
Functional movement assessments
Soft tissue therapy
Joint mobilisations and adjustments
Rehabilitation and strength-based exercises
Postural and ergonomic education
While spinal adjustments are one tool in our toolbox, they’re never the only one. We combine hands-on care with movement strategies and lifestyle support to create long-term, sustainable change. Chiropractic care is ideal for those who want a whole-body, functional approach to recovery—not just symptom relief.
What Does an EP Do for Lower Back Pain?
Our Exercise Physiologists (EPs) specialise in using movement and tailored exercise programs to manage pain, improve function, and prevent recurrence.
They are especially helpful for:
Chronic lower back pain
Poor core stability or postural imbalances
Rebuilding strength after an injury
Lifestyle-related causes of back pain (like prolonged sitting or inactivity, or even neurological conditions)
An EP will work with you to develop a safe and progressive plan that focuses on long-term strength and resilience to keep you moving.
Chiro vs EP: Which One Do You Need?
Here at Spectrum Health Co, our chiropractors and exercise physiologists often work together to give you a comprehensive treatment plan. Depending on your condition, you may benefit from one or both approaches.
Here’s a quick comparison:
Chiropractor
Exercise Physiologist
Focuses on full-body movement, joint function & soft tissue health
Focuses on movement and exercise-based rehab
Great for movement dysfunction, acute or persistent pain, and postural issues
Ideal for chronic pain, poor posture, and weakness
Combines manual therapy, rehab, and education
Provides structured, long-term exercise programs
When Should You See Each?
See a Chiro if you:
Have sharp or sudden lower back pain
Feel stiff, restricted, or out of balance
Experience nerve-type pain (tingling, numbness, sciatica)
Want hands-on treatment plus movement-based rehab
See an EP if you:
Have ongoing or chronic back pain
Want to improve posture, mobility, or core strength
Are ready to prevent future flare-ups with exercise
Have a sedentary job or lifestyle that’s contributing to your pain
Our Team Approach at Spectrum Health Co
You don’t have to decide on your own. When you visit our clinic, we’ll assess your condition and guide you toward the most appropriate care—whether that’s with a chiropractor, an EP, or both.
We believe in collaborative, holistic care that gets real results. Our goal is not just to treat pain, but to empower you with the tools to move and feel better long term.
👉 Book a consultation today with the team at Spectrum Health Co. Let’s find the right path forward for your lower back pain—together.