Condition guide
Back Pain Physiotherapy
Assessment and treatment for recent or ongoing back pain, including stiffness, flare-ups, and movement-related discomfort.
Back pain can affect work, sleep, and everyday activity. Physiotherapy focuses on understanding the cause of symptoms and building a plan to improve movement and function safely.
This guide is general information and does not replace a clinical assessment.
When to get urgent help
Go to A&E or call 999 for new bladder or bowel problems, loss of sensation around your genitals or bottom, or severe or worsening weakness or numbness in both legs. Do not wait for a physiotherapy appointment.
NHS: Back painCommon Symptoms
Pain or stiffness in the lower or mid back
Pain during bending, lifting, or prolonged sitting
Morning stiffness or reduced movement confidence
Back pain that limits walking, work, or exercise
Seek Prompt Medical Advice If You Have
New bowel or bladder changes
New numbness in the saddle area
Rapidly worsening leg weakness
Severe pain after major trauma
If you are unsure, call NHS 111 or seek urgent medical care.
Assessment
Clinical history, symptom pattern, and functional screening
Movement, strength, and nerve-related examination
Identification of aggravating factors and practical goals
Clear plan for treatment, rehabilitation, and review
Treatment
Hands-on therapy where appropriate to reduce pain and improve movement
Graduated exercise to restore strength and mobility
Load-management advice for work, childcare, and daily activity
Structured progression aimed at reducing recurrence
Aftercare & self-management
At your appointment, agree which exercises to do, how often to practise them and when to review your progress.
Keep moving within tolerable limits and avoid prolonged rest
Use the prescribed exercises consistently between appointments
Break up long periods of sitting or static posture
Increase activity gradually rather than all at once
Plan your visitClinic, prices, insurance and home visits
- Your clinic & directions
- Newham clinic, Plaistow
Newham Leisure Centre, 281 Prince Regent Lane, Plaistow, London E13 8SD
- Self-pay
£60 for a 30-minute physiotherapy appointment.
Prices & self-pay- Health insurance
Cover depends on your plan and chosen physiotherapist.
Insurance & cash-plan guidance
Would a home visit suit you better?
If getting to the clinic is difficult, explore physiotherapy at your visit address. Suitability depends on your condition, care needs, travel and the available clinician; the clinic price and insurance arrangements above do not automatically apply to home treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a scan for back pain?+
Most people do not need imaging at first assessment. We screen for red flags and advise if GP or imaging referral is appropriate.
Can I still go to work with back pain?+
In many cases yes, with temporary activity adjustments. Your plan will include practical advice for work tasks and pacing.
How many sessions are usually needed?+
This varies by presentation and duration of symptoms. After assessment, we explain an expected review timeline and progression plan.
Related care and guides
Further reading
For public health information, self-care guidance and advice on when to seek medical help:
About your care at Nexus: meet our physiotherapists and read our clinical governance information.