Osteopath, chiropractor or physiotherapist for back pain?

[GroovyChic]

Ever since having an epidural in 2004, I've suffered mild lower back pain but recently the pain has become unbearable :(

The dr has referred me for physiotherapy but this will take 6-8 weeks. I've had physio before for this and to be honest all they really did was give me a sheet with some exercises and it didn't really help.

In the meantime, I'm thinking of going private. Who would be best to see? Can anyone recommend anyone in north/north west london?

tia

I'd go with a chiropracter every time. They are trained medics who choose to specialise in chiropractice. Worth every penny. Look on the British Chiropractic website for a local one.

"They are trained medics"

No, they are not.

They are Chiropractors.

They go to a Chiropractic College and are regulated by the General Chiropractic Council.

They have a decent but not extraordinary evidence base for helping lower back pain, of a similar level to exercise and analgesia.

They also have risks associated with treatment and to avoid the most serious of these (stroke), you should avoid manipulation above the shoulder.

Osteopathic treatments seem to be equally as good but a little safer.
Same for physiotherapy exercises (if done diligently).

Alexander technique, a postural training scheme, also seems to have some efficacy.

Hope you feel better soon.

Physio - try to find one with an interest in backs.

Once you are better invest time in some back care/ maintenance - pilates is good.

there is no magic bullet most back pain requires alot of work by the patient. you need to do the exercises given to you.

DBennet, thats odd, I'll ask my chiropracter where she got her fake medical degree from then

Not all chiropractors have medical degrees Pheebe

Good on yours for having one

But most don't