Call us now: 020 7435 4910 · Appointments within 24 to 48 hours
A physiotherapist treating a patient in a SMARTPHYSIO clinic
4.8 ★★★★★ · 140 Google reviews

Back pain treatment in London

Most back pain settles with the right movement, treatment and a plan. We work out what is driving yours and get you moving again.

  • Initial assessment £85
  • Hampstead & Highgate
  • No GP referral needed
  • Appointments in 24 to 48 hours

Medically reviewed by the SMARTPHYSIO clinical team · August 2026

Understanding it

Understanding back pain

Symptoms
  • Aching or stiffness across the lower back
  • Sharp pain with bending, lifting or standing up
  • Pain that spreads into the buttock or leg
  • Stiffness first thing in the morning
  • Pain that flares after sitting for long periods
  • Difficulty finding a comfortable position at night
Common causes
  • Muscle or ligament strain from lifting, twisting or unaccustomed activity
  • Irritated joints or discs in the spine
  • Long periods of sitting and low activity
  • Most back pain is not caused by serious damage, even when it hurts a lot
When to seek help
  • If pain has lasted more than a week or two, or keeps returning
  • If pain spreads down the leg or comes with pins and needles
  • If pain is stopping you working, sleeping or exercising
  • Seek urgent medical help the same day for numbness around the saddle area, new bladder or bowel problems, or weakness in both legs
How we treat it

Our approach to back pain

Assessment first, then the combination of treatment and exercise that fits what we find.

Your first appointment is a full assessment: your history, how your back moves, and what makes the pain better or worse. You leave with a working diagnosis and a plan, with treatment started on the same visit wherever possible.

Treatment usually combines hands-on therapy with a short, specific exercise programme that rebuilds strength and confidence in your back. We keep you moving rather than resting, because that is what the evidence supports for most back pain.

What your programme can include

Physiotherapy Manual therapy Exercise rehabilitation Acupuncture and dry needling Sports massage
A SMARTPHYSIO physiotherapist guiding a patient through supervised exercise
Patient reviews

What our patients say

4.8 ★★★★★
140 Google reviews · SMARTPHYSIO Hampstead
Read all reviews
JTJonathan ThorntonJuly 2026
★★★★★

“Shokola was great with my 12 year old daughter. She got straight to the issue and made good and practical suggestions for treatment.”

Google review →
DSDeborah SimmonsJuly 2026
★★★★★

“Harsha has been kind, attentive and has helped me hugely with my hip and Achilles injuries. She’s a brilliant and very knowledgeable physiotherapist and I recommend her highly.”

Google review →
NHNicky HorneJune 2026
★★★★★

“I have seen several different therapists at Sammy Margo’s over many years. Every one has been excellent. When I was recovering from a hip replacement the physio I received helped me recover really quickly. Highly recommended.”

Google review →
NSNigel SpackmanMay 2026
★★★★★

“I had a full hip replacement following a cycle accident, and have daily physio visits on weekdays for three weeks. I am already able to walk short distances without a stick or crutch, and this is entirely due to the work they have done with me.”

Google review →
ANAdrian NaftalinApril 2026
★★★★★

“Thanks to Olga I have made great strides in my recovery from the after-effects of sepsis. My strength, balance and mobility have improved enormously under her excellent physiotherapy. I would recommend her wholeheartedly.”

Google review →
Good to know

Frequently asked questions

How long does back pain take to get better?
Most episodes improve significantly within a few weeks with the right movement and treatment. Your physiotherapist will give you an honest timescale for your specific problem at your first assessment.
Should I rest or keep moving?
For most back pain, keeping gently active is better than bed rest. Your physiotherapist will show you what to do and what to ease off, so you can stay moving with confidence.
Do I need a scan before physiotherapy?
Usually not. Most back pain can be assessed and treated without imaging. If your assessment suggests a scan or a medical review is needed, we will say so and explain why.
When is back pain an emergency?
Seek urgent medical help the same day if you notice numbness around the saddle area, new problems controlling your bladder or bowel, or weakness in both legs. These are rare, but they need immediate attention.
Can you treat back pain at home?
Yes. Home visits cover the whole of London, and back pain is one of the most common problems we treat at home, especially for older patients.

Let's get you moving again

Tell us about a home visit and we will call you back the same working day, or book a clinic appointment online.