Mater Back Stability Research Clinic supports people experiencing low back pain through a physiotherapy-led clinic that focuses on a proven muscle control training approach. 

Mater Back Stability Research Clinic has pioneered the use of live (real-time) ultrasound imaging as a comprehensive tool used in the assessment, treatment and feedback of muscle contraction for people with low back pain. The approach involves assessing for any core muscle deficits and then teaching specific core exercises using real-time feedback, which then forms the foundation of a program for patients to use and self-manage their recovery. 

For patients with core muscle deficits and recurrent low back pain, correct performance of core muscle exercises enables successful progression through a staged program to achieve optimal daily function. 

Our team 

Our team of experienced musculoskeletal physiotherapists all hold at least Masters of Physiotherapy qualifications and have specialised training in management of complex low back pain conditions and the use of real-time ultrasound imaging equipment. We work with a range of people from elite athletes to weekend warriors (being fit is no guarantee that your core muscles are functioning correctly), sedentary office workers to manual workers and adolescents to the elderly – anyone that experiences back pain. Our goal is to help people recover and return to their preferred activities, be it work, sport or leisure through individualised care. 

Science and Research

Mater Back Stability Research Clinic is founded on cutting-edge randomised  trials, cross-sectional and longitudinal studies, and this research has now been substantiated and adopted worldwide. The research supports our 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 do the exercises work?

The exercise approach is three dimensional. It harnesses sensory (information from the tissues) and motor (muscle contraction and spinal movements) aspects of spine function to optimise everyday performance. The basic premise of recurrent mechanical low back pain is that, for many individuals, inputs from the spine and its attached tissues contribute to the maintenance of symptoms that began due to abnormal or excessive loading associated with specific postures, movements, and/or muscle coordination. Motor control training aims to identify and modify all abnormal features of muscle performance and includes timely progressions with integration into everyday activities.

Each client’s personalised management program is tailored to correct movement deficiencies discovered during a thorough individual assessment. Your treating clinician will use ultrasound imaging equipment to allow you to have ‘an eye inside your body’ (a look at the muscles under your skin) so that you can see in detail how your core muscles are working. Combining performing, observing and feeling muscle contractions in real-time provides a feedback-rich experience that optimises learning and recovery. Any weak and un-coordinated core muscles can be measured and trained while you observe them.  

Another important part of our approach includes addressing any related postural issues, work (ergonomic) demands, and individualised fitness and leisure requirements. 

Location

Mater Back Stability Research Clinic is located on Level 2 at Mater Hospital Brisbane

Mater Back Stability Research Clinic
Level 2
Allied Health Department
Mater Hospital Brisbane
Raymond Terrace
South Brisbane QLD 4101

 Mud map

 

Clinic hours
Contact us
Parking
Fees and Eligibility
Cancellation policy
References