What we treat
Back and neck pain
Most back and neck pain isn't serious, but it can stop you sleeping, working and training. We find what's driving yours and build the strength to stop it coming back.
Explained
What is back and neck pain?
Back and neck pain usually comes from the muscles, joints and discs of the spine becoming sensitive. It often builds up over time with long hours sitting, a change in training, stress or poor sleep, or it can start suddenly with a lift or twist.
Scans rarely change the treatment. What helps most is understanding the problem, staying active and gradually rebuilding your capacity.
Common causes
- Long periods sitting or at a desk
- Lifting, twisting or a sudden movement
- A jump in training load
- Poor sleep and stress
- Low overall strength and fitness
Symptoms
- Ache or stiffness in the lower back or neck
- Pain when bending, lifting or turning your head
- Muscle spasm
- Pain spreading into the buttock, shoulder or arm
- Headaches that start in the neck
Treatment
How we help
We assess how your spine and hips move, measure balance and spinal movement on our Functional Mat, test your strength and range, and look at your work and training. Treatment combines hands-on work to ease pain with exercise that builds you back up in the gym.
- 1Assess and measureDetailed assessment with objective measures.
- 2ExplainWhat's going on, in plain language.
- 3TreatHands-on work where it helps.
- 4RebuildProgressive rehab in our gyms.
Typical treatment
- Clear explanation of what is going on
- Manual therapy and soft tissue work
- Mobility and strength exercise
- Progressive loading in the gym
- Advice on work set-up, sleep and activity
Thanks to his guidance and exercises, my neck pain has improved significantly.
When to get urgent help
If you have any of these, get medical help straight away. Call 999 or go to A&E if symptoms are severe or came on suddenly. Otherwise call 111 or your GP for an urgent appointment.
- Numbness around your genitals or buttocks
- New problems controlling your bladder or bowels
- Losing the urge to pass water
- Weakness in both legs or getting worse quickly
Questions people ask
Should I rest my back?
Short rest can ease a flare-up, but staying gently active is usually better. We will show you what is safe to do.
Do I need a scan?
Usually not. If your assessment suggests a scan or a specialist opinion would help, we'll tell you and explain the next steps.
Can I keep going to the gym?
Often yes, with changes. We help you adapt your training rather than stop altogether.
Get help with back and neck pain
Book an assessment online, or call and we'll help you choose the right clinic.