Back pain affects almost everyone at some point, but it does not have to be something you simply live with. Whether your pain came on suddenly or has been building for months, physiotherapy can find what is causing it and treat it effectively.
Back pain rarely has a single simple cause. It often involves a combination of joint stiffness, muscle tension, movement habits and postural factors that need to be assessed together for treatment to be effective and lasting.
Our physiotherapists carry out a thorough assessment to determine the exact source of your pain, whether that is a disc, joint, nerve, muscle or a combination of factors. From there, we develop a targeted treatment plan using manual therapy, specific exercise, movement re-education and practical lifestyle advice.
These are the most common presentations we see. Every patient is different, and your physiotherapist will assess your individual symptoms thoroughly.
Aching, stiffness or sharp pain in the lumbar region, often worse in the morning or after sitting for long periods.
Pain, tingling or numbness that travels from the lower back into the buttocks, thigh or lower leg.
Difficulty bending, twisting or straightening up, particularly first thing in the morning.
Involuntary tightening of the back muscles, often triggered by movement.
Discomfort that worsens when sitting, standing or driving for extended periods.
Reduced strength in the back, hips or legs, sometimes with a feeling of instability.
Your treatment plan will be tailored to you specifically. Here is what a typical course of physiotherapy for back pain looks like at Urmston Physio Clinic.
For many people, yes, particularly for acute or recent-onset back pain. For chronic or complex presentations, physiotherapy can significantly reduce pain and improve function. We will be honest with you about realistic expectations at your assessment.
Many patients with recent-onset back pain see significant improvement in 4 to 6 sessions. Chronic back pain may take a longer course. Your physiotherapist will give you an individual estimate at your first appointment.
Generally not. In most cases, staying gently active is better than resting. Prolonged bed rest can slow recovery. Your physiotherapist will advise you on what activities are appropriate for your situation.
The vast majority of back pain has a musculoskeletal cause and is not serious. However, certain symptoms such as bowel or bladder problems, pain with fever or pain following significant trauma do require urgent medical assessment.
Our physiotherapists have extensive experience treating back pain. A thorough assessment is the first step to understanding what is causing your problem and what can be done about it.
Initial consultations are 45 minutes and cost £60. Same-week appointments are usually available.
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