Mathew Farrugia
BSc BChiro Dip Sports FICS ICSSD
Clinical focus: Disc bulges, sciatica and nerve compression
Hi, I’m Mat.
I am the owner and sole chiropractor at Perth Chiro Centre in Warwick.
My clinical focus is the assessment and non-surgical management of spinal disc injuries and nerve related conditions. Many patients attend the clinic with MRI findings such as disc bulges, disc herniations, nerve compression or early spondylolisthesis and are unsure what the diagnosis means or what their options are.
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The first step is not treatment.
The first step is understanding the problem properly.
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My role is to help patients understand what is happening in their spine and determine the most appropriate next step in management.
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Clinical Focus
Over time my clinic has evolved toward treating spinal conditions that involve discs and nerve irritation.
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These commonly include:
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• Lumbar disc bulges
• Herniated discs
• Sciatica and nerve compression
• Degenerative disc disease
• Pars defects
• Grade 1 and Grade 2 spondylolisthesis
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Many patients attend after trying other conservative treatments without lasting improvement.
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The goal of the consultation is to determine whether symptoms are likely disc or nerve related and whether conservative management is appropriate.
How I Approach Spine Conditions
Clinical Approach
I believe strongly in evidence-informed care and honest clinical decision making.
This means:
• explaining scan findings clearly
• avoiding unnecessary treatment
• referring when appropriate
• focusing on long-term outcomes rather than short-term relief
If a condition requires specialist spinal opinion, I will recommend this.
If conservative care is appropriate, we develop a structured plan based on the individual presentation.
Experience
I have over 20 years of experience in the health industry and have treated many thousands of patients during that time.
Working closely with local GPs and spinal specialists has helped develop a clear understanding of when conservative care may be helpful and when surgical opinion is necessary.
Many patients are referred to the clinic by other healthcare professionals because they value careful assessment and honest clinical judgement.
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Many patients attend after receiving an MRI diagnosis and wanting a clear explanation of their options.
Spinal Decompression Therapy
Perth Chiro Centre is one of the few clinics in Western Australia equipped with multiple Hill DT spinal decompression therapy tables.
These allow structured decompression programs designed for patients with diagnosed disc and nerve conditions.
The technology is only one part of the process.
Correct patient selection and careful clinical assessment remain the most important factors in determining whether decompression is appropriate.
When I Refer
Not every spinal condition is suitable for conservative care.​
If neurological findings suggest that surgery or specialist review is required, I will recommend this.​
Patients deserve honest advice about their options rather than being placed into treatment programs that are unlikely to help.​
This approach has helped build long-term relationships with local doctors and spinal specialists.​
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Clinic Philosophy​
My philosophy is simple.
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Treat patients how I would want to be treated.
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Provide clear explanations, realistic expectations and appropriate care pathways.
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Many people attend feeling confused or worried after reading their MRI report.
Helping patients understand their diagnosis and what it actually means is often the most important part of the visit.
"I believe there is still hope for a better quality of life"
Disc and Nerve Assessment
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If you have been diagnosed with a disc bulge, herniation or nerve compression and would like clear guidance on the next step, a structured assessment can help clarify your options.
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Most patients attend the clinic after receiving an MRI diagnosis and wanting clear guidance on their options. Some patients are appropriate for conservative care, while others are advised to seek specialist opinion.
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