At St. Helens and WA Physiotherapy Clinics, we will take a detailed history including information about your symptoms and how they occurred. Your Chartered Physiotherapist will then examine your spine and related areas such as your hips. (you will need to be suitably undressed - a pair of shorts is ideal or a loose skirt for a lady). Following the examination, the physiotherapist will give you an explanation about your symptoms and any contributing factors such as mal-adaptive postures, poor muscle control or joint stiffness. A specific and individual treatment plan will then be devised and you will be given the opportunity to discuss this.

Treatments available include manipulation, acupuncture for pain relief, specific exercises to mobilise or improve the control and stability of the spine. We aim to treat the underlying cause of your symptoms and to provide you with exercises and information that will help to keep further problems at bay.

Low back pain 

Low back pain (LBP) is a very common condition and is one of the most common reasons for people to seek help from their doctor. In most cases low back pain should settle within 4 weeks. Problems arise when the pain persists and affects your daily activities. Most back pain is not serious and you can help your recovery by trying to keep active. We realise that during an acute episode of back pain that trying to stay active is difficult, but you will recover more quickly if you do. You may need to modify your activities slightly, but you should try to avoid staying in bed. Your pharmacist or GP will be able to suggest what medication you should take.

We can help to reduce the frequency of episodes. Treatment is aimed at identifying the underlying cause of your problem (such as joint stiffness, biomechanical malalignment or postural problems) and treating this. We will also provide you with exercises and clear advice to prevent your symptoms coming back.

If you have pain spreading down the leg (commonly known as sciatica), this is what your physiotherapist calls ‘referred pain’. Sciatic pain can be very severe, it can disturb your sleep and have impact on your work and social life. Treatment can help to ease the pain and to return you to a normal lifestyle. 

Neck pain

Neck pain and headaches are also a common problem and the neck can refer pain down the arm. You may also experience pins and needles or numbness. Physiotherapy can help to relieve these symptoms and prevent them from reoccurring. Your physiotherapist may also give you advice regarding posture and sitting positions especially if you work on a computer.