Individualised back pain care
Mater Back Stability Research Clinic uses live (real-time) ultrasound images of the spinal muscles to treat people experiencing low back pain. This state-of-the-art approach is supported by strong scientific evidence and involves looking for any issues with the trunk muscles and then correcting them using specific, tailored exercises, all under the guidance of live images.
Our team
The team is led by renowned researcher, Julie Hides.
The rest of our team of experienced physiotherapists all:
- hold at least Masters of Physiotherapy qualifications,
- have specialised training in management of complex low back pain, and
- have specialised training in the use of real-time ultrasound imaging.
Contact
If you have any questions or would like to make an appointment, please contact the Mater Back Stability Research Clinic by email or call us on 07 3163 1529.
FAQs
Is this treatment approach suitable for me?
Most people experience low back pain at some point in their life. This approach is suitable for anyone suffering from low back pain; from adolescents to the elderly, and from elite athletes to weekend warriors, office workers to manual labourers. Our goal is to help people recover and return to their important activities, be it work, sport or leisure.
How do the exercises work?
Each client undergoes their own assessment with the real time ultrasound to determine any issues with the strength and co-ordination of their trunk muscles. From this, a personalised treatment is developed which is tailored to correct movement issues discovered during the assessment. Your treating physiotherapist will use the ultrasound to give you ‘an eye inside your body.’ This allows you to train them more effectively to be stronger and more co-ordinated.
The exercises performed whilst watching with the ultrasound then form the basis for transitioning into higher level exercises under the guidance of your physiotherapist. This means your muscles can now meet the demands of work, sport and leisure activities, allowing you to live with less pain and more confidence.
Does this approach actually work?
Mater Back Stability Research Clinic is founded on cutting-edge randomised trials, cross-sectional and longitudinal studies that have been accepted and adopted worldwide. This research forms the basis of the approach that the correct activation of the deep stability muscles of the trunk (transversus abdominis and multifidus, in conjunction with the pelvic floor and the diaphragm) is key to the successful management of people with sub-acute and chronic mechanical low back pain of all ages and ability. All clients utilising this service have the option of participating in our ongoing research program.
How much does it cost?
Mater Back Stability Research Clinic is a research-based private service with a competitive fee structure for its specialised services.
Initial consultation - $210
(approx. 90min)
Includes comprehensive musculoskeletal assessment using real time ultrasound imaging and individualised program prescription.
Review consultation - $120
(approx. 45min)
Anyone can self-refer into the clinic. We suggest clients check with their health fund regarding what reimbursement they might be eligible for. We are also registered to provide WorkCover, DVA and Medicare Chronic Disease Management services.
Can I reschedule?
Please let us know as soon as possible if you need to reschedule an appointment. This will allow us to offer the appointment time to someone else.
Cancellations made with more than 24 hours’ notice can be re-booked at no additional cost.
If you do not attend or if you cancel within 24 hours of your appointment, a cancellation fee may be charged.