Back Pain Physiotherapy in Surbiton

Expert physiotherapy for lower back pain and sciatica. Thorough assessment, hands-on treatment, and structured exercise rehabilitation at our CQC-registered clinic in Surbiton.

CQC Registered 4.9/5 Google Rating All Insurers Accepted

Common Causes of Back Pain

Lower back pain is one of the most common reasons people seek physiotherapy. Understanding the cause is the first step to effective treatment. Our physiotherapists perform a detailed assessment to identify exactly what is driving your pain.

Disc Irritation

Disc bulges and herniations can cause local back pain and referred pain into the leg (sciatica). Most disc problems respond well to physiotherapy without the need for surgery. Treatment focuses on movement strategies, progressive loading and pain management.

Muscle Strain

Sudden movements, lifting, or overloading can strain the muscles and ligaments of the lower back. These injuries respond well to early movement, manual therapy and graduated strengthening exercises.

Poor Posture

Prolonged sitting, desk work, and sedentary lifestyles are major contributors to lower back pain. Our physiotherapists assess your posture, identify habits that are loading your spine, and provide practical strategies and exercises to address them.

Lifting Injuries

Back pain from lifting -- whether in the gym, at work, or at home -- is extremely common. Physiotherapy helps you recover and also addresses the movement patterns and strength deficits that made you vulnerable in the first place.

How We Treat Back Pain

Our approach combines thorough assessment with evidence-based treatment. We follow NICE guidelines for lower back pain management, which recommend exercise and manual therapy as first-line treatments.

1
Detailed Assessment

A thorough physical examination to identify the source of your pain, assess movement quality, test nerve function where relevant, and rule out anything that needs onward referral. We give you a clear diagnosis and explanation.

2
Manual Therapy

Hands-on treatment including joint mobilisation, soft tissue massage, and muscle release techniques to reduce pain, restore movement and improve function. This is combined with active rehabilitation for lasting results.

3
Exercise Rehabilitation

A personalised exercise programme targeting your specific weaknesses and movement problems. This is the most important part of long-term back pain management -- building resilience so the pain does not return.

When to See a Physiotherapist for Back Pain

Most back pain improves within a few weeks, but physiotherapy can significantly speed up recovery and reduce the chance of recurrence. You should book an appointment if:

  • Pain has lasted more than a few days and is not improving
  • Pain is spreading into your leg or buttock (possible sciatica)
  • You are struggling with daily activities or work
  • You have had recurring episodes of back pain
  • You want to prevent future episodes
  • You are unsure whether it is safe to exercise
Seek Urgent Medical Attention If:
  • You develop numbness in the saddle area (inner thighs, buttocks, genitals)
  • You experience difficulty controlling your bladder or bowels
  • You have progressive weakness in both legs

These symptoms are rare but can indicate cauda equina syndrome, which requires immediate medical attention. Go to A&E or call 999.

Back Pain FAQs

Common questions about lower back pain, sciatica and physiotherapy treatment.

You should see a physiotherapist if your back pain has lasted more than a few days without improving, if it is affecting your ability to work or exercise, or if pain is radiating into your leg. Early physiotherapy leads to faster recovery and helps prevent the problem from becoming chronic. You do not need a GP referral -- you can book directly with us online or by calling 0208 133 5694.

Yes -- exercise is one of the most effective treatments for lower back pain. NICE guidelines recommend staying active and using structured exercise as a first-line treatment. Our physiotherapists prescribe specific exercises tailored to your condition, starting gently and progressing as your pain improves. The key is doing the right exercises at the right time, which is why a physiotherapy assessment is valuable.

Most acute back pain episodes improve significantly within 2-6 weeks. However, without proper rehabilitation, back pain has a high recurrence rate -- around 70% of people experience another episode within a year. Physiotherapy not only helps with the current episode but also addresses the underlying factors to reduce the risk of it coming back. Sciatica can take longer to resolve, typically 6-12 weeks with treatment.

What Our Patients Say

Book Back Pain Physiotherapy in Surbiton

Expert assessment, diagnosis and rehabilitation for lower back pain and sciatica. CQC-registered clinic with same-week availability. No GP referral needed.

Contact Us
Location
380 Ewell Road, Surbiton, KT6 7BE
Public Transport
Close to Tolworth and Surbiton stations