Back Pain Treatment in Wandsworth SW18

Back pain is one of the most common reasons people seek osteopathic treatment. At Back to Back Osteopathy in Wandsworth SW18, our experienced osteopaths regularly help people with both acute and long-standing back pain.

Back pain can affect anyone, from office workers and parents to runners and gym-goers. Early assessment and treatment can often speed recovery and help prevent problems from becoming long-term.

Osteopathic treatment focuses on improving the movement and function of the spine, helping to reduce pain and support recovery

Osteopathy is in the NICE (NG59) and NHS guidelines for the treatment of lower back pain.

What is back pain?

Back pain can involve the muscles, joints, ligaments or discs of the spine. It may occur suddenly after lifting, sport or an awkward movement, or develop gradually due to posture, repetitive strain or reduced movement.

Most back pain is mechanical, meaning it relates to how the joints and muscles of the spine are functioning rather than a serious underlying condition.

Common symptoms

Common symptoms of back pain include:

• Localised lower back pain

• Stiffness when bending or twisting

• Muscle spasms

• Pain when sitting or standing for long periods

• Pain radiating into the buttock

• Difficulty getting comfortable at night

Some people also experience pain after exercise, lifting or prolonged sitting.

How osteopathy can help

Treatment may include:

• Gentle joint mobilisation

• Soft tissue massage. Possible acupuncture where appropriate

• Spinal manipulation where appropriate

• Advice on posture and movement

• Rehabilitation exercises

The aim is to restore normal movement, reduce pain and help prevent the problem returning.

When should you see an osteopath for back pain?

You may benefit from seeing an osteopath if:

• Your back pain has lasted more than a few days

• The pain keeps returning

• It is affecting sleep, work or sport

• Movement feels restricted or stiff

Early treatment can often help shorten recovery time.

When to seek medical advice

Although most back pain is mechanical, you should seek medical advice urgently if you experience:

• Loss of bladder or bowel control

• Numbness around the groin or saddle area

• Significant leg weakness

• Severe unexplained pain following trauma

Your osteopath will screen for these symptoms during assessment

At Back to Back, our osteopaths regularly assess and treat back pain for people across Earlsfield, Southfields and the wider Wandsworth area

Related conditions we treat

• Sciatica

• Neck pain

• Shoulder pain

• Sports injuries

References

  1. National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE).
    Low back pain and sciatica in over 16s: assessment and management (NG59). Updated 2020.

  2. Hartvigsen J, Hancock MJ, Kongsted A, et al.
    What low back pain is and why we need to pay attention.
    The Lancet. 2018;391(10137):2356–2367.

  3. Foster NE, Anema JR, Cherkin D, et al.
    Prevention and treatment of low back pain: evidence, challenges, and promising directions.
    The Lancet. 2018;391(10137):2368–2383.

  4. Qaseem A, Wilt TJ, McLean RM, Forciea MA.
    Noninvasive treatments for acute, subacute, and chronic low back pain: a clinical practice guideline from the American College of Physicians.
    Annals of Internal Medicine. 2017;166(7):514–530.

This page is for general information and does not replace individual medical advice.

Book an appointment

If you are experiencing back pain, the osteopaths at Back to Back Osteopathy in Wandsworth SW18 are here to help.

You can book an appointment online or call the clinic on 020 8605 2323 if you would like advice about the most appropriate practitioner.