Content Reviewed By: Dr. Steve Knighton, B.Sc., D.C. on August 21, 2026
Chiropractic License Number: 5580
Low Back Pain Treatment & Relief in Oakville
Low back pain is one of the most common reasons patients visit our Oakville chiropractic and physiotherapy clinic. It may begin suddenly after lifting, exercise, a fall or car accident, or gradually from prolonged sitting, repetitive activity, reduced mobility or age-related changes.
At Nottinghill Family Wellness Centre, our chiropractors and physiotherapists assess the muscles, joints, nerves and movement patterns that may be contributing to your pain. The goal is to identify the likely source of the problem before developing a personalized treatment and rehabilitation plan.
Depending on your diagnosis, care may include chiropractic manipulation or mobilization, physiotherapy, soft tissue therapy, targeted exercises and other clinic-based therapies. Shockwave therapy may also be used on surrounding muscles and soft tissues when clinically appropriate.
Low back pain is the leading cause of disability worldwide, but most episodes are not caused by a dangerous medical condition. A proper assessment can help determine whether your symptoms are mechanical or whether further medical investigation is required.
Low Back Pain Anatomy: What Can Actually Cause the Pain?
Low Back Pain: Quick Answers
What causes low back pain?
Low back pain can arise from muscles, joints, discs, ligaments, the sacroiliac joints or irritation of nerves in the lumbar spine. In many patients, more than one structure contributes to the symptoms.
When should I see someone for low back pain?
Consider an assessment if the pain is severe, keeps returning, limits normal activity, travels into the leg, or is not improving as expected.
Do I need an X-ray or MRI?
Most uncomplicated episodes of low back pain do not require immediate imaging. Imaging may be appropriate when there has been significant trauma, progressive neurological symptoms, suspicion of fracture or another serious condition, or when the result would change treatment.
Can chiropractic care help low back pain?
Spinal manipulation and mobilization may be included as part of a broader treatment plan for some patients with low back pain. Exercise, education and maintaining activity are also important parts of evidence-informed care.
Can physiotherapy help low back pain?
Yes. Physiotherapy may include mobility work, manual therapy, progressive strengthening, core stabilization and a home exercise program based on the patient’s presentation.
The lower back is made up of five lumbar vertebrae along with discs, facet joints, ligaments, muscles and nerves. The pelvis and sacroiliac joints also interact closely with the lumbar spine, while muscles such as the quadratus lumborum, multifidus, gluteals, piriformis and hip flexors can influence movement and loading through the region.
Low back pain does not always come from one specific structure. Pain may be associated with irritated spinal joints, muscle or ligament strain, disc-related pain, sacroiliac joint dysfunction, nerve irritation or a combination of these factors.
Pain travelling into the buttock or leg can sometimes indicate irritation of a lumbar nerve root or sciatic nerve. Other patients experience localized low back pain without neurological symptoms. This is why assessment is important rather than assuming every episode has the same cause.
Our Oakville chiropractors and physiotherapists examine range of motion, strength, neurological function, posture, movement patterns and the surrounding muscles and joints to help determine the most appropriate treatment approach.
Common Causes Of Low Back Pain
- Mechanical or non-specific low back pain – pain involving the joints, muscles and surrounding tissues without one clearly identifiable damaged structure.
- SI joint-related pain – pain around the back of the pelvis that may be aggravated by standing, walking, rolling in bed or changing positions.
- Muscle strain or spasm – commonly involving the quadratus lumborum, multifidus, gluteal muscles or other tissues surrounding the lumbar spine.
- Lumbar disc irritation or herniation – may cause localized back pain or symptoms travelling into the leg.
- Sciatica or lumbar nerve irritation – pain, tingling, numbness or other neurological symptoms that can travel from the lower back into the leg.
- Lumbar spinal stenosis – narrowing around spinal nerves that may cause back or leg symptoms, particularly during standing and walking.
- Facet joint irritation – pain arising from the small joints at the back of the lumbar spine.
- Reduced strength or physical conditioning – inadequate trunk, hip and lower-extremity strength may contribute to recurring symptoms in some patients.
How We Treat Low Back Pain in Oakville
There is no single treatment that is appropriate for every person with low back pain. Your treatment plan should be based on your examination findings, diagnosis, pain level, activity requirements and goals.
At Nottinghill Family Wellness Centre, our chiropractic and physiotherapy teams use a combination of hands-on care, exercise and rehabilitation. Treatment may include spinal manipulation or mobilization, soft tissue therapy, progressive strengthening and other therapies when clinically appropriate.
Dr. Steve Knighton has treated low back pain in Oakville for nearly 20 years, while our physiotherapy team is led by Vinaya, who has more than 26 years of clinical experience.
5 Steps for Treating Low Back Pain In Oakville
Step 1: IFC and Heat When Appropriate
Interferential current therapy, or IFC, is one of the modalities available at our Oakville clinic. We use vacuum suction cups rather than traditional adhesive pads, allowing the current to be applied comfortably across the surrounding muscles and soft tissues.
For selected patients, IFC and moist heat may be used early in an appointment to help with comfort and muscular relaxation before hands-on treatment. It is used as an adjunct to care rather than as a replacement for movement, exercise or manual therapy.
Step 2: Shockwave Therapy for Surrounding Muscles and Soft Tissue
Shockwave therapy may be incorporated when tight, painful or chronically irritated muscles and soft tissues appear to be contributing to a patient’s low back pain. Rather than treating the spine itself, shockwave is typically directed toward appropriate surrounding soft tissues such as the quadratus lumborum, gluteal muscles or other clinically identified areas.
Research into extracorporeal shockwave therapy for chronic low back pain has shown promising results for pain and function, although the evidence is still developing. For this reason, we use shockwave as one component of an individualized treatment plan rather than presenting it as a stand-alone cure for back pain.
The location, intensity and number of pulses are adjusted according to the patient’s diagnosis, tolerance and clinical findings.
Step 3: Soft Tissue Therapy and Trigger Point Treatment
Muscles and connective tissues surrounding the lumbar spine, pelvis and hips can become painful, guarded or restricted during an episode of low back pain. Depending on the examination findings, treatment may include manual soft tissue techniques, trigger point therapy or movement-based soft tissue treatment.
Common areas assessed include the quadratus lumborum, lumbar paraspinals, multifidus, gluteal muscles, piriformis and hip flexors. Treatment is individualized rather than assuming the same muscle is responsible for every patient’s symptoms.
Step 4: Chiropractic Spinal Manipulation or Mobilization
Chiropractic spinal manipulation and mobilization are hands-on treatment options that may help reduce pain and improve function in some people with low back pain. The technique used depends on the patient’s examination findings, comfort level, age, health history and diagnosis.
Dr. Steve Knighton has provided chiropractic care in Oakville for nearly 20 years. Treatment is tailored to the individual rather than using the same adjustment on every patient.
Spinal manipulation is generally used as part of a broader treatment plan that also emphasizes movement, exercise and strategies to help patients remain active.
Step 5: Exercise, Core Stability and Preventing Recurrence
As pain settles, treatment increasingly focuses on restoring normal movement, strength and confidence. Exercise is one of the most important components of long-term low back pain management.
Depending on the patient’s needs, rehabilitation may include core stabilization, hip and glute strengthening, mobility exercises and gradual return to work, sport or normal daily activity.
Our chiropractors and physiotherapists can modify exercises according to the severity of your symptoms. Someone experiencing significant acute pain will usually begin differently than an experienced gym-goer recovering from a recurring back problem.
What Our Patients Are saying About Low Back Pain
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Steve is awesome! Helps my aching problems every visit and sends me stretches to help that I can do at home. I have a love/hate relationship with the machines but definitely worth it! Steve comes in after the machines and does his magic! So happy I found his services 😀... read more
Kim Havenaar
December 7, 2024Dr.Jenn is a very caring and skilled chiropractor. She has a gentle yet highly effective touch. I have been to her for two separate issues and both have resolved nicely. I would highly recommend her to anyone. The clinic staff are very friendly and helpful as well.
Sandra Chiang
June 7, 2024I’ve been seeing Dr. Steve for the past few months, and I couldn’t be more impressed with the care and attention I’ve received. From the very first visit, Dr. Steve took the time to thoroughly assess my concerns and explain the treatment plan in detail. I’ve struggled with neck pain... read more
Anjana Bhaskaran
December 10, 2024 -
I found the clinic while looking for shockwave therapy to help with relapse in elbow pain. I was really short on time to get ready for a sporting event, and Dr. Steve and the team at Nottinghill made sure my treatment was a priority. They were able to address the... read more
Fauwad Khan
June 30, 2026Less than 6-7 min. by chiropractor. Waste of money.
Jadis
March 31, 2026Best place I’ve been to for chiro and physio…
Gregory Ellis
May 1, 2026 -
Dr. Steve is fantastic! He’s a great guy who listens to your concerns and is knowledgeable of what needs to be done. He has helped me recover from multiple injuries on my upper and lower body. Everyone at the office is very friendly and helpful as well they have a... read more
Braeden v
May 27, 2026I had a neck injury, and they booked me in on the same day! Steve knew right away what to do and set out a plan to get me back to normal. Steve and the team are amazing :)
Lucija Paric
February 6, 2025Steve and his team are absolutely amazing. Very efficient. Absolutely knowledgeable and corrected my issue Very quickly. Steve and team are so friendly and such positive high energy in the office. Love seeing everyone 💕
Linda Paul
December 7, 2024
What Causes Low Back Pain?
Low back pain can begin in many different ways. Some patients remember one specific movement such as lifting, twisting or playing a sport. Others develop symptoms gradually after prolonged sitting, repetitive work or changes in physical activity.
Risk factors can include reduced physical conditioning, repetitive lifting, prolonged sitting, previous episodes of low back pain, certain occupational demands and age-related changes. However, back pain is rarely explained by posture or one weak muscle alone.
Remaining active within your tolerance is generally preferable to prolonged bed rest. As symptoms improve, progressive exercise can help restore strength, mobility and confidence.
Low Back Pain Videos From Our Oakville Chiropractic Team
The videos below explain some of the muscles, joints and conditions that may contribute to low back pain. They are educational resources and do not replace an individual examination or diagnosis.
Oakville Treatment for SI joint Low Back Pain
SI Joint & Low Back Pain Relief:
The sacroiliac joints connect the pelvis to the sacrum and can be one source of pain around the lower back, buttock and posterior pelvis. SI joint-related pain can sometimes feel similar to pain originating from the lumbar spine, hip or surrounding muscles.
Patients may notice discomfort when changing positions, rolling in bed, walking, climbing stairs or moving from sitting to standing. Because several conditions can create similar symptoms, an examination is important before attributing low back pain specifically to the SI joint.
Quadratus Lumborum Anatomy and Its Role in Lower Back Pain
Quadratus Lumborum Treatment Video:
Treatment for Psoas and Hip Flexor for Back Pain!
IT Band and Low Back Pain Treatment Video:
Chiropractic Adjustments for Low Back Pain in Oakville
Spinal manipulation is one treatment option for some patients with acute or chronic low back pain. Research and clinical guidelines support spinal manipulation as one potential component of conservative care, particularly when combined with exercise, education and continued activity.
During an adjustment, a chiropractor applies a controlled movement or quick thrust to a spinal joint. Some adjustments produce an audible popping sound, while others do not. The sound itself is not required for a successful treatment.
Our chiropractors select techniques according to the individual patient’s examination findings, preferences and clinical needs.
Acupuncture for Low Back Pain Oakville
Acupuncture is another treatment option available at Nottinghill Family Wellness Centre. Dr. Jenn may incorporate acupuncture when appropriate based on the patient’s symptoms, preferences and clinical presentation.
Acupuncture involves inserting very fine needles into selected points and may be used as part of a broader plan for pain management and muscular relaxation. It is not required for every patient with low back pain.
Low Back Pain FAQs
What causes low back pain?
Low back pain can arise from muscles, joints, discs, ligaments or nerves. Common presentations include mechanical low back pain, muscle strain, SI joint-related pain, disc irritation, sciatica and age-related degenerative changes. In many patients there is no single structure responsible for every symptom.
How do I know if I have sciatica?
Sciatica commonly describes pain associated with irritation of the sciatic nerve or lumbar nerve roots. Symptoms may travel from the lower back or buttock into the thigh, calf or foot and can include burning, tingling, numbness or weakness. Leg pain does not automatically mean sciatica, so an examination can help determine the cause.
Is sciatica an emergency?
Most cases of sciatica are not medical emergencies. Urgent medical assessment is required when back or leg symptoms are accompanied by new loss of bowel or bladder control, numbness around the groin or saddle region, or severe or rapidly progressing leg weakness.
What treatment is best for low back pain?
There is no single treatment that is best for every patient. Treatment depends on the cause, duration and severity of the symptoms. Evidence-informed care commonly includes education, remaining active, appropriate exercise and, for selected patients, manual therapy such as spinal manipulation, mobilization or soft tissue therapy.
Do I need an X-ray or MRI for low back pain?
Most patients with uncomplicated low back pain do not require immediate imaging. Imaging may be appropriate following significant trauma, with certain neurological findings, when a serious underlying condition is suspected, or when the result is likely to change treatment.
Should I use ice or heat for low back pain?
Either may provide temporary symptom relief. Some patients prefer ice following an acute flare-up, while others find heat more comfortable for muscle stiffness. Use whichever is comfortable and avoid extreme temperatures or prolonged direct skin exposure.
Should I stay in bed when my back hurts?
Prolonged bed rest is generally not recommended for uncomplicated low back pain. Remaining reasonably active and gradually returning to normal activity is usually encouraged, provided serious injury or neurological problems have been ruled out.
Should I see a chiropractor or physiotherapist for low back pain?
Both chiropractors and physiotherapists commonly assess and manage mechanical low back pain. The most appropriate provider depends on your symptoms, treatment preferences and individual needs. Our Oakville clinic offers both services, allowing care to be coordinated when appropriate.
Can exercises help low back pain?
Yes. Exercise is an important component of managing and preventing many types of recurring low back pain. Programs may include trunk stabilization, hip strengthening, mobility exercises and gradual return to normal activity.
Can low back pain come from a herniated disc?
Yes. Lumbar discs can contribute to localized back pain and may irritate nearby nerve roots, sometimes causing pain, numbness or tingling into the leg. However, disc changes are also commonly found on imaging in people who have no pain, so imaging findings must be interpreted together with the patient’s symptoms and examination.
Can low back pain come from the SI joint?
Yes. The sacroiliac joint can be one potential source of pain around the lower back, buttock and pelvis. Because SI joint pain may resemble lumbar spine, hip or muscular pain, diagnosis should be based on the complete clinical examination.
How long does low back pain take to improve?
Recovery varies considerably depending on the diagnosis, severity, previous episodes, activity level and other individual factors. Many uncomplicated episodes improve over time, while persistent or recurring pain may require a longer rehabilitation approach.
Exercises for Low Back Pain
Exercise is an important part of managing many types of low back pain and reducing the likelihood of recurring problems. There is no single perfect back exercise for everyone, so the program should match the person’s symptoms, ability and stage of recovery.
Common exercises may include:
- Bird dog
- Dead bug
- Side plank
- Modified curl-up
- Glute bridge
- Pallof press
- Hip and glute strengthening
- Individualized mobility exercises
During an acute episode, exercises may need to be modified. Stop an exercise and seek professional advice if it causes significant worsening of pain, new numbness or tingling, progressive weakness or other unusual neurological symptoms.
Exercises can be modified for almost every stage of low back pain. Patients with significant acute symptoms may begin with gentle movements and basic stabilization, while those further along in recovery can progress toward more challenging strength and conditioning exercises.
Read enough and ready to start treatment in Oakville for that annoying lower back pain?
Low Back Pain Red Flags: When to Seek Urgent Medical Attention
Most low back pain is not caused by a dangerous condition. However, certain symptoms require urgent medical assessment.
Seek urgent medical attention for low back pain accompanied by:
- New loss of bladder or bowel control
- Difficulty controlling or initiating urination
- New numbness around the groin, genitals or inner thighs
- Severe or rapidly progressive weakness in one or both legs
- Significant difficulty walking or loss of coordination
- Severe pain following substantial trauma
- Back pain accompanied by fever or significant systemic illness
- Persistent unexplained pain associated with a history of cancer or unexplained weight loss
These symptoms do not necessarily mean that a serious condition is present, but they warrant prompt medical evaluation.
Ready to Have Your Low Back Pain Assessed?
If low back pain is limiting your work, sleep, exercise or normal daily activity, our Oakville chiropractic and physiotherapy teams can assess your symptoms and determine an appropriate treatment plan.
Nottinghill Family Wellness Centre
1131 Nottinghill Gate, Oakville, Ontario
Call: 905-827-4197
Text: 289-228-8858