Physiotherapy Treatment For Back Pain
- HCPC-registered
- Same-week slots
- No GP referral
Back pain can affect more than just your back.
Perhaps it’s uncomfortable to sit at your desk, difficult to get out of bed or painful to bend down and pick something up.
Back pain can show up in different ways. Whatever you’re experiencing, the first step is understanding your symptoms.
- Full assessment
- Hands-on treatment
- Digital notes
- Exercise plan to phone
- Follow-up advice
- Shared record (any clinic)
Lower back pain
A dull ache, sharp pain or stiffness across your lower back that makes everyday movements uncomfortable.
Pain after sitting
Discomfort or stiffness after working at a desk, driving or sitting for extended periods.
Sciatica and leg pain
Pain, tingling or discomfort travelling from your lower back into your buttock or down your leg.
Sudden back spasm
A sudden sharp pain or tightening sensation after bending, twisting, lifting or making an unexpected movement.
Recurring back pain
Pain that improves for a while but keeps returning and starts interfering with your normal routine.
Morning stiffness
A stiff or uncomfortable back when getting out of bed, which may improve as you start moving.
Sports and gym-related back pain
Discomfort following exercise, weightlifting, running or sporting activities.
Desk and posture-related pain
Back discomfort associated with prolonged sitting, repetitive activities or working positions.
Back problems our physiotherapists commonly treat
Back pain isn’t always the same. It can involve muscles, joints, discs, nerves or a combination of factors.
Our physiotherapists assess your symptoms and develop an appropriate treatment approach based on your individual needs.
We commonly assess and treat people experiencing:
- Lower back pain
- Upper and mid-back pain
- Sciatica and nerve-related leg pain
- Disc-related back pain
- Muscle strains and soft-tissue injuries
- Sacroiliac joint-related pain
- Postural and desk-related back discomfort
- Back pain following lifting or physical activity
- Sports-related back injuries
- Persistent or recurring back pain
- Arthritis-related back stiffness
- Rehabilitation following back surgery, where appropriate
Not sure whether physiotherapy is right for your symptoms?
Our team can help you understand whether an appointment is appropriate.
What happens during your first physiotherapy appointment?
Your first appointment is about understanding your back pain, identifying factors that may be contributing to it and deciding on the right next steps.
- 01 — We listen We'll ask about your symptoms, when the pain started, what makes it better or worse and how it's affecting your everyday activities.
- 02 — We assessYour physiotherapist will assess your movement, mobility, strength and relevant joints. Nerve-related tests may also be carried out where clinically appropriate.
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03 — We start treatmentDepending on your assessment, your treatment may include hands-on techniques, movement exercises and practical advice to help improve comfort and mobility.
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04 — You leave with a planWe'll explain our findings, discuss your treatment options and recommend exercises or changes that can support your progress between appointments.
Treatment built around your back, not a standard routine.
There isn’t one treatment that works for every type of back pain.
Your physiotherapist will recommend an approach based on your symptoms, assessment findings, goals and current level of activity.
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Hands-on physiotherapyWhere appropriate, manual therapy and mobilisation techniques may help improve movement and reduce discomfort.
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Movement and posture adviceWe'll discuss practical ways to manage activities such as sitting, lifting, working and exercising.
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Personalised exercise programmesExercises can help improve mobility, build strength and support your ability to manage everyday activities.
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Strength and mobility workGradual strengthening and mobility exercises can help you build confidence and return to the activities that matter to you.
Our aim is to help you understand your back pain, move with greater confidence and manage your symptoms independently.
A practical approach to getting back to everyday life.
- ASSESSUnderstand your symptoms and the factors contributing to your back pain.
- RELIEVEWork towards reducing discomfort and improving comfortable movement.
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REBUILDGradually develop mobility, strength and confidence through appropriate exercises.
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RETURNWork towards returning to work, exercise, hobbies and everyday activities.
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MAINTAINBuild sustainable movement and strengthening habits that can help reduce the likelihood of recurring problems.
Different therapist. Same treatment plan.
Your physiotherapy shouldn’t become complicated just because you visit a different clinic or see another therapist.
Physio Central connects multiple clinic locations through one shared patient record.
Your assessment notes, treatment progress and relevant exercise information can follow you across our network.
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Multiple London locationsChoose a convenient clinic location for your physiotherapy appointment.
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One shared patient recordYour treatment information is recorded within our shared network, helping clinicians maintain continuity
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Greater flexibilityNeed to visit a clinic closer to work this week and another closer to home next week? Our connected network makes this easier.
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Consistent treatment approachYour physiotherapy can continue with another clinician without having to start your story from scratch.
Near work this week. Near home next week. Your treatment follows you.
When back pain needs urgent medical attention
Most back pain can be assessed and managed through appropriate healthcare support. However, some symptoms require urgent medical attention rather than a routine physiotherapy appointment.
Seek emergency medical assessment if you develop:
- New difficulty controlling your bladder or bowel movements.
- Numbness around your groin, genitals or the area you would sit on (saddle area).
- Significant or rapidly worsening weakness in both legs.
- Severe back pain following significant trauma.
Helping people move with greater confidence.
4.9/5
Questions about back pain? Sorted.
Can physiotherapy help lower back pain?
Yes. Physiotherapy can help many people with lower back pain by improving movement, building strength and providing practical strategies to manage symptoms. Your physiotherapist will assess your individual condition and recommend an appropriate approach.
Do I need an MRI or scan before seeing a physiotherapist?
Not usually. Many back pain problems can initially be assessed through your symptoms and a physical examination. Imaging is only recommended when clinically appropriate. If your symptoms suggest a need for further investigation, your physiotherapist can advise you on the next steps.
Can physiotherapy help with sciatica?
Physiotherapy may help people experiencing sciatica by addressing movement difficulties, supporting appropriate exercise and helping manage symptoms. The treatment approach will depend on your individual assessment.
Should I rest if I have back pain?
Prolonged bed rest is generally not recommended for uncomplicated back pain. Gentle movement and gradually returning to normal activities may be helpful, depending on your symptoms. Your physiotherapist can advise you on suitable activities.
What should I wear to my physiotherapy appointment?
Wear comfortable clothing that allows you to move easily. Sportswear, leggings or loose-fitting clothing are all suitable. Your physiotherapist may need to assess the movement of your back, hips and legs.
How many physiotherapy sessions will I need?
This depends on the nature of your back pain, how long you’ve experienced symptoms and how you respond to treatment. Some people may benefit from a small number of appointments, while others with persistent or complex problems may need longer-term support. Your physiotherapist will discuss this with you.
Can I attend if I've had back pain for several months?
Yes. Persistent or recurring back pain can be assessed by a physiotherapist. Your assessment will consider your symptoms, medical history, movement and previous treatment.
Can I have physiotherapy after back surgery?
Physiotherapy may form part of your rehabilitation following back surgery. However, treatment needs to take account of your procedure, recovery stage and any restrictions from your surgical team. Please discuss your suitability before booking.
Ready to take the next step towards moving more comfortably?
You don’t have to keep putting up with back pain or let it dictate your daily routine.
Get your symptoms assessed, understand your treatment options and take the next step with Physio Central.
