Back pain we treat
Back pain is one of the most common reasons people come to see us. We treat:
- Lower back pain that came on suddenly, for example after lifting, gardening or sport
- Long-standing or recurring back pain that keeps flaring up
- Sciatica and nerve pain running into the buttock or leg (more on nerve pain)
- Disc problems, including a bulging or “slipped” disc
- Facet joint and sacroiliac joint (SIJ) pain
- Stiffness and arthritis in the spine
- Pars defects and spondylolisthesis, common in young athletes and rowers
- Back pain in pregnancy and after having a baby
- Upper back pain from desk work, posture and training
What happens at your first appointment
Your first appointment lasts 60 minutes. Your physio will:
- Ask how the pain started, what makes it better or worse, and what you want to get back to.
- Check for anything that needs a doctor’s attention instead.
- Examine how your back, hips and legs move, and test nerve function if the pain spreads.
- Explain what is causing your pain in plain English.
- Start treatment, which can include hands-on work to ease pain and movements you can do at home straight away.
How we treat back pain
There is no single treatment that works for everyone. Your plan is built around what we find, and usually combines:
- Hands-on treatment to ease pain and stiffness: soft tissue work, joint mobilisation and, where it helps, manipulation
- Exercise to build strength and confidence in your back, progressed as you improve
- Advice on activity: how to keep working, training and sleeping while your back settles
- Acupuncture or dry needling for some people
- Referral for imaging or a specialist if your symptoms suggest you need it
We also have osteopathy and chiropractic in the same building if you prefer those approaches.
Getting back pain to stay away
Once the pain has settled, we focus on why it happened. That might mean strength work for your back and hips, changes to your desk set-up, or a better way to build up your running or lifting. The aim is that you know what to do if it niggles again, rather than needing to come back.
Common questions
Should I see a physio or a GP for back pain?
For most back pain you can see a physiotherapist directly, without a GP referral. See a GP or call 111 urgently if you have numbness around your groin or bottom, new problems controlling your bladder or bowel, weakness in both legs, or back pain with fever, unexplained weight loss or a history of cancer.
Do I need a scan for back pain?
Usually not. Most back pain can be diagnosed from a careful assessment, and scans often show changes that are normal for your age and not the cause of pain. If your physio thinks a scan would change your treatment, we can refer you for an MRI.
How many physio sessions will I need for back pain?
Many people feel a difference within one to three sessions. Recent back pain often settles within a few weeks. Long-standing pain usually needs a few weeks of treatment alongside a home exercise plan. Your physio will give you an honest estimate at your first visit.
Should I rest or keep moving?
Keep moving within comfort. Bed rest tends to slow recovery. Gentle walking and normal activity, adjusted for the pain, usually help. Your physio will show you which movements are safe and which to ease off for now.
How much does back pain physiotherapy cost?
An initial assessment is £130 for 60 minutes and includes your first treatment, or £92 for new patients who book online. Follow-ups are £70 for 30 minutes or £130 for 60 minutes. We work with Bupa, AXA Health, Aviva, WPA and other major insurers.