Webcke on the mend

Brisbane prop Shane Webcke's relief was evident on his battle-scarred face as he confirmed his rugby league career was alive and kicking.

Specialists today put to rest fears a disc-related problem in his back would prematurely end the Test forward's playing career. Webcke, 29, finished last weekend's NRL game against the Bulldogs in agony, sparking fears and casting doubts about his ability to play in the Origin series.

"I just feel a tremendous amount of relief even though I never contemplated anything bad was going to happen," said the 112kg prop who will be rested from this weekend's clash against Canberra with former Origin forward Carl Webb re-called from the Queensland Cup.

"It's always nice to get rid of the doubt and that's gone.

"I'll be playing Origin one -- that's if I get picked."

Webcke will be the first Queensland player picked and his name is being linked as a possible captain with Darren Lockyer injured, and almost certain to miss the opening Origin on May 26 after breaking a rib.

Webcke has shown courage since aggravating a previous back injury during last month's Anzac Test against the Kiwis.

He has experienced crippling pain of late which at times has been so excruciating he's had to sleep on the floor and stand on bus and plane trips to games.

After soldiering though his fourth game in 15 days against the Bulldogs, Webcke admitted he would sit out the Origin series if medical advice recommended a playing spell.

But after consulting his specialist today, he declared he'd be back on deck next week and available for the Origin series.

"Everything's fine. I've just got to have the weekend off and I should be right to play next weekend," he said.

"I've got a couple of disc issues, but nothing serious. It's something footy didn't cause and footy is not going to make worse.

"While it's a problem, it's a very manageable one.

"Long term wise, there shouldn't be any problems."