Back pain

Back pain is a common health issue that can disrupt everything from sleep to work and daily routines. At King Edward VII’s Hospital, our experienced back pain specialists offer expert care, rapid diagnosis and personalised treatment to help you find relief.

What causes back pain?

There are many possible causes of back pain, ranging from everyday activities to medical conditions. 

Common causes of back pain include:

• Poor posture when sitting or standing
• Lifting or twisting injuries
• Sports or traumatic injuries
• Sedentary lifestyle or weak core muscles
• Herniated discs (also known as slipped or prolapsed discs)
• Degenerative disc disease or osteoarthritis
• Spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal)
• Scoliosis or other spinal deformities
• Fractures, especially related to osteoporosis
• Inflammatory conditions such as ankylosing spondylitis

You may be more at risk if you’re older, have excess weight, smoke or have a job that involves heavy lifting or sitting for long periods.

When to seek help for your back pain

Many cases of back pain get better with self-care. However, you should see a doctor if:

• Your pain lasts more than a few weeks
• It’s severe or getting worse
• You experience pain down your legs (sciatica), tingling or numbness
• You have difficulty walking, standing or sleeping due to pain

If you have back pain and lose control of your bladder or bowels, seek immediate medical care. 

At King Edward VII’s Hospital, our team of orthopaedic consultants, spinal surgeons, physiotherapists and pain specialists will listen carefully to your symptoms and concerns. We’ll work with you to identify the root cause of your pain and provide tailored treatment to support your recovery.

Diagnosing back pain at King Edward VII’s Hospital

Getting the right diagnosis is the first step towards feeling better. 

Depending on your symptoms, your consultant may recommend:

• A physical examination to assess your posture, movement and reflexes
• Diagnostic imaging such as X-rays, MRI or CT scans to detect disc problems, arthritis or nerve compression
• Nerve tests, if there’s a chance of nerve damage or sciatica

We provide fast access to on-site imaging and diagnostics, so you won’t have to wait for answers or treatment.

Private back pain treatment at King Edward VII’s Hospital

Treatment for back pain depends on the underlying cause and severity of your symptoms. Many people benefit from a combination of therapies, including:

• Physiotherapy – structured exercises, stretching and posture correction under expert guidance
• Pain management – including medication and nerve blocks to reduce inflammation and discomfort
• Musculoskeletal ultrasound injections – such as transforaminal epidural steroid injections or facet joint injections
• Minimally invasive procedures – including image-guided interventions for slipped discs or nerve compression
• Spinal surgery – when necessary, our renowned spinal surgeons offer advanced surgical options, including microdiscectomy (removal of a portion of a herniated disc) and spinal fusion (joining bones in the spine) 

We understand that living with back pain can be challenging. Our team provides expert musculoskeletal and orthopaedic care to support you in regaining flexibility, movement and confidence.

Why choose us for back care?

King Edward VII’s Hospital is one of the UK’s leading centres for back pain treatment in London. 

When you choose us, you’ll benefit from:

• Access to London’s top back pain specialists, including orthopaedic consultants, spinal surgeons, physiotherapists and pain management experts
• Fast access to diagnostics and treatment, with no need for a GP referral
• State-of-the-art facilities, including on-site imaging, advanced operating theatres and private en-suite rooms
• A personalised, consultant-led approach with continuity of care from diagnosis to recovery
• High patient satisfaction and outstanding nursing care in a comfortable, calm setting

Whether your back pain is new or has been affecting you for years, we’re here to help you move forward.

Find specialist back pain treatment in London

You don’t have to learn to live with back pain. If you’re looking for expert back pain treatment in London, King Edward VII’s Hospital is here to support you.

Contact us today to arrange an appointment with one of our back pain specialists in London and take the first step towards lasting relief.