Back and neck pain

Our back and neck pain research aims to develop knowledge of human movement to improve treatments.

The Low Back Research Team is a group of clinical researchers working on the classification and specific treatment of low back disorders.  Our vision is to raise the standard of physiotherapy management for low back pain by conducting and disseminating high quality research on the efficacy of specific treatment for well defined subgroups.

To achieve this vision our goals are:

  • To engage clinicians in a career path that involves clinical and research excellence in a special area of interest, utilising a collaboration with the LifeCare network of physiotherapy and sports medicine practices
  • To develop and validate a classification system for low back disorders based on rigorous methodology that becomes widely accepted amongst health professionals.
  • To develop and evaluate the efficacy of a series of sophisticated treatment algorithms with specific mechanisms of effect targeting a variety of low back disorder subgroups
  • For the treatment algorithms to demonstrate large effect sizes, and become well accepted amongst physiotherapists internationally

Currently the Low Back Research Team has almost completed a major randomised controlled trial on the efficacy of specific low back treatment (the STOPS trials).  Based on the success of this classification approach we are expanding the team into further questions around low back disorders, as well research into shoulder and pelvic problems.  The Low Back Research Team is a vibrant, supportive and outcome oriented place to complete a rewarding higher degree.

 

Potential PhD topics

The Department will consider any research topic that interests potential PhD students; however, students will benefit from researching in areas that align with the Faculty’s research strengths.  Please find a relevant supervisor to discuss your PhD topic.

Alternatively you may contact one of our academics below to discuss your area of interest.