Back pain is one of the most common reasons people seek chiropractic care — and one of the conditions we treat most effectively at Sloane Square Chiropractors. Whether you are suffering from a sudden acute injury or have been living with persistent, long-standing back pain, our experienced team of GCC-registered chiropractors in Chelsea can help.
Located at 9a Wilbraham Place, just moments from Sloane Square Underground station, we have been providing expert chiropractic care to patients across Chelsea, Knightsbridge, Belgravia and South Kensington since 2001.
To book a back pain consultation, call us on 020 7730 3031
What Causes Back Pain?
Back pain can arise from a wide range of underlying causes. At Sloane Square Chiropractors, our approach is always to identify the root cause of your pain — not simply to treat the symptoms. The most common causes of back pain we see include:
Muscular Strain and Ligament Sprain
Sudden awkward movements, heavy lifting or overexertion can cause strains to the muscles and ligaments supporting the spine. This is one of the most common causes of acute lower back pain and typically responds well to chiropractic treatment.
Disc Problems
The intervertebral discs act as shock absorbers between the vertebrae of the spine. When a disc bulges or protrudes, it can press on adjacent nerves, causing localised back pain or referred pain radiating into the legs (sciatica). Chiropractic manipulation and spinal traction can be highly effective in managing disc-related back pain.
Postural Problems
Prolonged sitting, poor workstation ergonomics and sedentary lifestyles are increasingly common causes of chronic back pain, particularly among office workers. Abnormal postural loading creates cumulative stress on the spinal joints, muscles and discs over time.
Facet Joint Dysfunction
The small joints at the back of the spine — known as facet joints — can become irritated, inflamed or restricted in their movement, causing localised back pain that is often worse with extension and rotation movements.
Degenerative Changes
Wear and tear of the spinal joints and discs — known as spondylosis or osteoarthritis — is a common cause of chronic back pain in older adults. While degenerative changes cannot be reversed, chiropractic care can significantly improve mobility, reduce pain and help patients maintain an active lifestyle.
Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction
The sacroiliac joints connect the base of the spine to the pelvis. Dysfunction of these joints is a frequently overlooked cause of lower back and buttock pain. Specific chiropractic techniques are highly effective in restoring normal sacroiliac joint mechanics.
Symptoms of Back Pain
Back pain can present in many different ways. Common symptoms include:
- Dull, aching pain in the lower, mid or upper back
- Sharp or stabbing pain on movement
- Stiffness and restricted range of motion
- Pain that radiates into the buttocks, hips or legs
- Muscle spasm
- Pain that worsens with prolonged sitting or standing
- Pain that is worse in the morning and improves with movement
- Difficulty standing up straight after sitting
How We Diagnose Back Pain
At your initial consultation — which lasts 45 minutes — your chiropractor will conduct a thorough clinical assessment including:
- A detailed history of your complaint, including onset, aggravating and relieving factors
- Relevant medical, occupational and lifestyle history
- Physical examination including postural assessment, range of motion testing and orthopaedic tests
- Neurological screening where appropriate
Where clinically indicated, we may refer you for X-ray or MRI imaging. We work closely with leading radiologists and imaging centres across London to ensure rapid, high-quality results. We also have close working relationships with many of London’s leading orthopaedic surgeons and medical consultants, and will refer you onwards where appropriate.
How We Treat Back Pain
Chiropractic treatment for back pain is evidence-based and highly effective. NICE guidelines (updated 2020) recommend manual therapy — including spinal manipulation — as a first-line treatment for low back pain, alongside exercise. A landmark Medical Research Council trial published in the British Medical Journal (Meade et al., 1990; 1995) found that chiropractic treatment was significantly more effective than hospital outpatient treatment, with benefits maintained at three-year follow-up.
Depending on your diagnosis, your treatment plan may include:
Spinal Manipulation and Adjustment
Precise, controlled manipulation of the spinal joints to restore normal movement, reduce pain and improve function. This is the core chiropractic technique and is safe, gentle and highly effective when performed by a qualified practitioner.
Spinal Traction
We offer spinal traction at our Chelsea clinic — a technique that gently decompresses the vertebrae, relieving pressure on the intervertebral discs and nerves. Particularly effective for disc protrusions and chronic lower back pain.
Soft Tissue Therapy
Targeted massage and myofascial release techniques to address muscular tension, trigger points and soft tissue restrictions that contribute to back pain.
High Pressure Cryotherapy
We use high pressure cryotherapy to reduce acute inflammation and accelerate tissue healing. Particularly effective in the early stages of an acute back injury or following a flare-up of a chronic condition.
Kinesiology Taping
Kinesiology tape can be applied to support the muscles and joints of the back during rehabilitation without restricting movement. It can help reduce pain and swelling and facilitate recovery.
Postural Advice and Rehabilitation
We provide tailored advice on posture, ergonomics and rehabilitation exercises to address the underlying causes of your back pain and prevent recurrence. Our goal is always to discharge you with the tools to maintain your own spinal health.
How Many Sessions Will I Need?
This varies depending on your age, the nature, severity and duration of your condition. Acute back pain often responds quickly — sometimes within 3 to 6 sessions. Chronic or complex conditions may require a longer course of treatment.
Following your initial assessment, your chiropractor will give you a clear and realistic treatment plan with measurable goals. We regularly reassess your progress and adapt the plan accordingly.
Why Choose Sloane Square Chiropractors for Back Pain Treatment?
- Over 50 years of combined clinical experience
- GCC-registered chiropractors
- Principal chiropractor Dominic Cheetham is an elected Examiner for the General Chiropractic Council
- Established in Chelsea since 2001
- Close working relationships with London’s leading orthopaedic surgeons and medical consultants
- GP and consultant referrals welcomed — no referral required to self-refer
- Recognised by BUPA, AXA Health, Vitality, Aviva, WPA and Cigna
- Thorough, unhurried consultations — we never rush
- Conveniently located at 9a Wilbraham Place, minutes from Sloane Square tube
Health Insurance
Sloane Square Chiropractors is recognised by all major UK health insurers. We recommend contacting your insurer before your first appointment to confirm your level of cover and obtain any required authorisation code.
- BUPA
- AXA Health
- Vitality
- Aviva
- WPA
- Cigna
Frequently Asked Questions — Back Pain
Is chiropractic treatment effective for back pain?
Yes — there is strong clinical evidence supporting chiropractic treatment for back pain. NICE guidelines recommend manual therapy as a first-line treatment for low back pain. A major MRC clinical trial found chiropractic treatment significantly more effective than hospital outpatient treatment, with benefits maintained at three-year follow-up.
How quickly will I see results?
Many patients notice an improvement in pain and mobility within the first 2-3 sessions. The speed of recovery depends on the nature and duration of your condition, your age and your general health. Your chiropractor will give you a realistic assessment at your initial consultation.
Do I need a GP referral for back pain treatment?
No — you can self-refer directly to our clinic. Simply call us on 020 7730 3031. We do receive many patients referred by their GP or a medical consultant, and are happy to liaise with your medical team where appropriate.
Is chiropractic treatment for back pain safe?
Yes — chiropractic treatment is widely regarded as one of the safest forms of manual healthcare for back pain when performed by a GCC-registered chiropractor. The most common side effects are mild and temporary, typically some soreness in the treated area for 24-48 hours after treatment.
What should I wear to my appointment?
Please wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing. Your chiropractor may need to examine your back, so clothing that can be easily adjusted is helpful.
Book Your Back Pain Consultation Today
Call 020 7730 3031 | 9a Wilbraham Place, Chelsea, London SW1X 9AE