Back Pain Treatment in Newton Abbot & Taunton
Back pain is one of the most common reasons people visit Momentum Chiropractic. Whether it comes on suddenly after lifting or builds up gradually from desk work, our goal is to help you move comfortably again and understand what's really going on with your spine and muscles.
Understanding Mechanical Back Pain
Most back pain is what's called mechanical — meaning it comes from how the joints, muscles and soft tissues of your spine are moving and supporting you. It isn't usually caused by serious disease or damage. Instead, everyday strain, awkward posture, stiffness or tension can cause the joints of the spine to stop moving smoothly, leading nearby muscles to tighten or spasm as they try to protect the area.
This type of back pain can feel dull and achy, sometimes sharp with certain movements, or even refer into the buttocks or hips. You might notice stiffness after sitting or driving, pain when bending or lifting, or a catch when you stand up from a chair. Although uncomfortable, this kind of pain usually improves well with the right movement, hands-on care, and gradual return to normal activity.
Common Causes
There's rarely a single cause of back pain. It often involves a mix of:
Restricted or irritated spinal joints (facet joint strain)
Tight or overworked muscles and ligaments
Poor posture or prolonged sitting
Sudden overuse, awkward lifting or twisting
Deconditioning after a flare-up or time off activity
Occasionally, discs or nerves can be involved, but these are far less common than people think. Your chiropractor will assess this during your examination and refer if further investigation is needed.
How Chiropractic Can Help
At Momentum Chiropractic, we start by understanding your history and examining how your spine, hips and muscles are working together. We use a range of techniques — including gentle spinal adjustments, joint mobilisation, soft-tissue therapy and simple home exercises — to help restore normal motion and reduce tension.
As your mobility and comfort improve, we guide you on posture, pacing and strengthening to help prevent recurrence. Each plan is individual and reviewed regularly to ensure you're progressing well.
Who We Help
We regularly see people whose pain has developed from everyday life — office workers, parents, tradespeople and retirees alike. Some experience stiffness after sitting; others flare up after gardening, golf or DIY. Whether you want to get back to sport, enjoy long walks, or simply sit without discomfort, your care is tailored to your lifestyle and goals.
Your First Visit
At your first appointment, we'll take a full history, perform a physical and spinal examination, explain our findings in plain English, and agree a plan together. You'll always be asked for consent before any examination or treatment begins. We usually review progress within about six weeks to make sure you're improving as expected.
Types of Back Pain We Treat
Lower Back Pain (Lumbar Pain)
The most common type of back pain, affecting the five vertebrae in your lower back. Often caused by lifting, twisting, prolonged sitting or poor posture. Can range from a dull ache to sharp, stabbing pain that makes movement difficult.
Upper Back Pain (Thoracic Pain)
Pain between the shoulder blades or along the mid-back, often linked to desk work, poor posture or carrying heavy bags. Can feel like a constant ache or tightness that worsens with prolonged sitting.
Acute vs Chronic Back Pain
Acute back pain comes on suddenly and typically lasts days to weeks. Chronic back pain persists for three months or longer and may require a different management approach focusing on gradual rehabilitation and lifestyle changes.
Common Symptoms
Back pain can present in many ways. You might experience:
Dull, constant ache in the lower or upper back
Sharp pain when bending, lifting or twisting
Stiffness after sitting or first thing in the morning
Muscle spasms or tightness
Pain that radiates into the buttocks or hips
Difficulty standing up straight
Reduced range of motion
Pain that improves with movement or worsens with rest
What to Expect: Recovery Timeline
Week 1-2: Initial Relief Phase
Most patients notice reduced pain and improved mobility within the first few visits. We typically recommend 2 visits per week during this phase to build momentum and help your body adapt to the changes.
Week 3-6: Rehabilitation Phase
As pain decreases, we focus on strengthening and restoring full function. Visit frequency may reduce to once per week as you become more active and confident in your movements.
Week 6+: Maintenance & Prevention
We review your progress and discuss long-term strategies to prevent recurrence. Some patients choose ongoing maintenance care (monthly or as needed), while others feel confident managing independently with home exercises.
Note: Recovery timelines vary depending on the severity of your condition, how long you've had it, and your overall health. We'll discuss realistic expectations at your first visit.
Prevention Tips: Keep Your Back Healthy
Posture & Ergonomics
- • Set up your desk so your screen is at eye level
- • Use a supportive chair with lumbar support
- • Take regular breaks from sitting every 30-45 minutes
- • Avoid slouching on the sofa or looking down at your phone
Lifting Technique
- • Bend your knees, not your back
- • Keep the load close to your body
- • Avoid twisting while lifting
- • Ask for help with heavy or awkward items
Exercise & Movement
- • Walk regularly — even 15-20 minutes daily helps
- • Strengthen your core muscles
- • Stretch tight hip flexors and hamstrings
- • Stay active but pace yourself during flare-ups
Lifestyle Factors
- • Maintain a healthy weight to reduce spinal load
- • Stay hydrated to keep spinal discs healthy
- • Get adequate sleep on a supportive mattress
- • Manage stress — tension affects muscle tightness
Frequently Asked Questions
How long will it take to feel better?
Most patients notice improvement within 2-4 visits, but this depends on how long you've had the problem and its severity. Acute back pain (recent onset) typically responds faster than chronic pain that's been present for months or years.
Is chiropractic treatment safe for back pain?
Yes. Chiropractic care is recognized as a safe and effective treatment for mechanical back pain. Our chiropractors are GCC registered and trained to identify when back pain requires medical referral rather than chiropractic care.
Will I need X-rays or scans?
Most back pain doesn't require imaging. We can usually diagnose and treat mechanical back pain through examination alone. If we suspect something that needs further investigation, we'll refer you to your GP or appropriate specialist.
Can I exercise with back pain?
Yes — staying active within your comfort level is usually beneficial. We'll advise you on which activities to continue, which to modify, and which to avoid temporarily. Movement helps maintain joint health and prevents stiffness.
Do you treat slipped discs?
Discs don't actually "slip," but they can bulge or herniate. While some disc problems respond well to gentle chiropractic care, others may need different management. We'll assess your specific situation and advise whether chiropractic treatment is appropriate or if you need referral.
Home & Self-Care Advice
Keep moving within comfort — short walks and gentle stretches help keep joints healthy. Use heat for muscle tension, and avoid long periods of sitting if possible. We'll also give you simple exercises to strengthen your back and improve flexibility between visits.
When to Seek Urgent Help
If you experience new bladder or bowel problems, numbness in the saddle area, unexplained weight loss, fever, or severe unrelenting pain at night, contact your GP or NHS 111/999 immediately. We'll always advise you if we suspect anything that needs further medical attention.
Why Choose Momentum Chiropractic?
Our chiropractors are registered with the General Chiropractic Council and have extensive experience helping patients from Newton Abbot, Taunton and across Devon and Somerset. We focus on honest advice, clear explanations and gentle, evidence-informed care to get you moving confidently again.
Related Conditions We Treat
Back pain often relates to other musculoskeletal issues. Explore these related conditions:
Ready to Take the First Step?
Even if you don't see your exact condition listed here, we may still be able to help. Our chiropractors take time to understand your unique situation and tailor care to your needs.
Visit our Newton Abbot clinic or Taunton clinic for expert care.
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