Joel Tippett is set to miss the next four to six weeks after a heavy knock in the VFL on Saturday.

Playing with Werribee, the key-defender was kneed in the back during general play.

He suffered extensive bruising to the muscles in his lower back and a fracture of the transverse process, a small bony projection off the side of his vertebrae.

“Joel reported immediate pain and spasms in his lower back,” North Melbourne Director of Football Geoff Walsh said.

“Things have now settled and he will have follow up scans as part of his treatment.”

Walsh downplayed the fracture, as some in the spinal region can be more significant.

“The word ‘fracture’ is never a good one when it comes to injuries, but in Joel’s case, it is not one that will interfere significantly with his conditioning or long term spinal function.,” Walsh added.

“There’s no need for surgery and our medical team is certainly aiming at getting him back in about four weeks.”

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