Back and neck pain can affect work, sleep, exercise and simple daily tasks. It may begin after a strain or injury, or build gradually through changes in activity, prolonged sitting, stress or an underlying health condition.<\/p>\n
Many episodes improve with time and sensible movement. But when pain persists, keeps returning or limits what you can do, a physiotherapy assessment can help you understand the problem and plan a safe way forward.<\/p>\n
A physiotherapist looks at more than the painful area. Your assessment may cover how the symptoms began, which movements make them better or worse, your work and activity levels, previous injuries, strength, mobility and any relevant medical conditions.<\/p>\n
Depending on the findings, treatment may include:<\/p>\n
There is no single exercise programme that suits everyone. The right starting point depends on your symptoms, confidence and current ability.<\/p>\n
Long periods in bed are usually not recommended for uncomplicated back pain. Gentle activity, such as short walks and comfortable movements, may be more useful. The NHS guidance on back pain<\/a> advises people to remain active where possible and to stop an exercise if it makes pain worse.<\/p>\n This does not mean pushing through severe pain. Activity can be adapted. A physiotherapist can help you decide what to continue, what to reduce temporarily and how to build back up.<\/p>\n Back or neck pain sometimes needs medical assessment rather than routine physiotherapy. Seek urgent help if you feel very unwell, develop severe pain that starts suddenly or have symptoms that are getting worse quickly.<\/p>\n Call 999 or attend A&E for back pain with loss of feeling around the genitals or anus, new bladder or bowel problems, or pain, weakness, tingling or numbness in both legs. Sudden weakness, problems speaking, severe headache, altered vision or symptoms after a serious accident also need urgent assessment.<\/p>\n Your physiotherapist will ask about your symptoms and goals before examining relevant movements, strength and function. You can discuss what matters most to you, whether that is sleeping more comfortably, returning to the gym, working without repeated flare-ups or managing daily tasks.<\/p>\n You should leave with a clearer explanation, practical advice and a plan suited to your situation.<\/p>\nWhen to seek urgent medical help<\/h2>\n
What to expect from your first appointment<\/h2>\n
Book a physiotherapy assessment<\/h2>\n