You can access the Back Pain Unit through:

• Self referral: via website enquiry or telephone booking
• GP / ANP / Physiotherapy referrals: using a simple referral form
• NHS referrals: when local NHS MSK services signpost patients to us

The aim is to ensure people with back pain can access help quickly and easily, without unnecessary delays

1. Initial Consultant Assessment

Every patient is first seen by a consultant with expertise in spinal conditions.

This appointment includes:

• A full history of the back problem
• Neurological checks
• Review of any previous scans
• Identification of red flags (urgent symptoms)
• A clear plan for next steps

This stage ensures every patient gets an accurate understanding of what is causing their pain.

2. Imaging (MRI & Other Scans)

If imaging is needed, the patient is booked for:

• MRI of the spine (usually within 48–72 hours)
• Additional scans if required (e.g., X ray or CT)

A consultant radiologist provides a report, normally within 24 hours.

This gives the clinical team a clear picture of what’s happening in the spine.

3. Consultant Review & Treatment Planning

Once imaging is complete, the consultant meets the patient to:

• Explain the findings
• Answer questions
• Discuss suitable treatment options

Patients receive a personalised plan, which may include:

• Physiotherapy
• Pain management techniques
• Spinal injections
• Surgical opinion (if appropriate)

The focus is always on the least invasive option that will work.

4. Targeted Interventions (Non Surgical & Surgical)

If needed, we can offer targeted treatments quickly.

Non surgical procedures (usually same day discharge):

• Epidural steroid injections
• Nerve root blocks
• Facet joint injections
• Radiofrequency ablation

These are performed in theatre or a procedure room by the consultant.

Surgical options (only when necessary):

• Microdiscectomy
• Decompression
• Fusion or stabilisation procedures

All interventions are consultant led, with trained staff and full safety support.

5. Physiotherapy & Rehabilitation

Rehabilitation is a key part of the pathway.

Patients are referred to physiotherapy for:

• Mobility improvement
• Pain reduction
• Core and postural strengthening
• Long term prevention strategies

Physiotherapy continues alongside or after any injections or surgery.

6. Follow Up & Outcome Monitoring

To ensure good outcomes, we provide:

• A follow up at 2 weeks
• A further review at 6–8 weeks
• Ongoing support if symptoms persist
• Collection of patient outcome scores and feedback

This allows us to monitor progress and adjust treatment quickly if needed.