Condition
Lower Back Pain
Lower back pain is one of the most common reasons people seek healthcare. According to the NHS, it affects around 1 in 6 adults in the UK at any given time and is a leading cause of work-related absence. For most people it is not a sign of anything serious, but that does not make it any less disruptive to daily life.
Back pain can range from a dull, persistent ache to sharp, acute discomfort. It may come on suddenly following a movement or injury, or develop gradually over time with no obvious cause. The lower back is most commonly affected, though pain in the mid and upper back is also frequently seen in clinic.
Common causes and contributing factors include:
- Muscle or ligament strain from heavy lifting or sudden awkward movement
- Poor posture sustained over long periods, often related to desk work
- Joint stiffness or dysfunction in the spine
- Disc-related issues, including bulging or herniated discs
- Degeneration associated with age
- Prolonged inactivity or sedentary lifestyle
It is worth noting that in many cases, imaging such as X-rays or MRI scans does not always explain the level of pain a person experiences. Pain is complex and influenced by many factors beyond structural findings alone.
Condition
How We Care Can Help
At Angel Spine Clinic, back pain is assessed thoroughly before any treatment begins. Understanding the nature, history, and mechanics of your pain allows us to put together an approach that is appropriate for you specifically.
Depending on the assessment findings, care may include:
- Spinal manipulation to restore joint movement and reduce local pain
- Joint mobilisation for areas of stiffness or restricted range of motion
- Soft tissue techniques to address muscle tension and trigger points
- Postural assessment and correction
- Tailored exercise and movement advice to support recovery and reduce recurrence
Research supports the use of spinal manipulation for low back pain. The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) includes manual therapy as a recommended treatment option for low back pain when used alongside other approaches such as exercise.
The goal at Angel Spine Clinic is not simply to relieve pain in the short term, but to help you understand what is contributing to it and equip you with the tools to manage and prevent it going forward.
Your Questions, Answered
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I rest if I have back pain?
In most cases, no. Staying as active as possible within your comfort level is generally advised. Prolonged bed rest can slow recovery. Gentle movement and staying mobile tends to produce better outcomes.
How many sessions will I need?
This varies from person to person. Some people notice significant improvement after a small number of sessions, while others with more chronic or complex presentations may benefit from a longer plan. After your initial assessment, we will give you a realistic expectation of what to expect.
Is chiropractic care safe for back pain?
Chiropractic care is considered a safe and effective option for most types of back pain. Your chiropractor will carry out a full assessment to confirm it is appropriate for you before any treatment takes place.
Can chiropractic help with back pain that has been there for years?
Yes. Chronic back pain can be more complex to address, but many patients with long-standing pain see meaningful improvement with chiropractic care. Understanding the underlying patterns and contributing factors is key, which is why assessment is so important.
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What We Treat
Common Conditions
We treat a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions — from everyday discomfort to complex, long-standing pain.
