If you have back pain, you may be wondering whether you should see an osteopath or a physiotherapist. The good news is that both can help with many common musculoskeletal problems, but their approaches can be slightly different.

At Osteopathy and Therapy in Low Fell, Gateshead, we provide both osteopathy and physiotherapy, so we can help you choose an approach that is appropriate for your symptoms and goals.

What does an osteopath do for back pain?

Osteopathy commonly uses hands-on techniques to assess and treat problems affecting the muscles, joints and other tissues of the body.

For back pain, an osteopath may look at how your spine, pelvis, hips and surrounding muscles are moving and working together. Treatment may include manual techniques alongside advice about movement, activity and managing your symptoms.

Osteopathy can be particularly useful if your back feels stiff, tight or restricted, or if you are experiencing recurring musculoskeletal pain.

What does a physiotherapist do for back pain?

Physiotherapy can also involve hands-on treatment, but exercise and rehabilitation are often an important part of the approach.

A physiotherapist may assess your strength, flexibility, movement and functional ability before developing an exercise programme around your needs. This might include strengthening, mobility exercises, advice about activity and strategies to help you return to work, sport or everyday activities.

Physiotherapy can be particularly useful when you want to build strength, improve movement or return to a particular activity.

So, which one should I choose?

There isn’t always a simple answer. Your symptoms, lifestyle, goals and previous experience with back pain all matter.

For example:

Osteopathy may be appropriate if:

• Your back feels stiff or restricted

• You have muscle or joint-related back pain

• You are looking for hands-on treatment

• Your back pain is affecting your everyday movement

Physiotherapy may be appropriate if:

• You want to improve strength and mobility

• You are recovering from an injury or surgery

• You want a structured exercise programme

• Your back pain is affecting your ability to work, exercise or participate in activities

In many cases, a combination of hands-on treatment, exercise and advice can be useful.

What if I’m not sure?

You don’t necessarily need to decide before your appointment.

At Osteopathy and Therapy in Low Fell, our osteopaths and physiotherapists can assess your individual problem and discuss the most appropriate approach with you.

The important thing is to understand why you are experiencing back pain and what you can do to improve it, rather than simply treating the painful area.

Looking for back pain treatment in Low Fell?

If you’re experiencing back pain and aren’t sure whether osteopathy or physiotherapy is right for you, contact Osteopathy and Therapy on Durham Road, Low Fell, Gateshead.

We provide both osteopathy and physiotherapy for back pain, helping people across Low Fell, Gateshead and the surrounding areas get back to the activities they enjoy.