Back & Neck Pain
Back or neck pain can affect every part of your day - from getting out of bed in the morning to sitting comfortably at work or enjoying time with your family.
Whether your pain started suddenly after lifting something heavy or has gradually developed over time, physiotherapy aims to identify the underlying cause rather than simply treating the symptoms.
At MK Physiotherapy, we provide personalised assessment and evidence-based treatment to help you move with confidence again.
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Why does my back or neck hurt?
Knowing what you're feeling and why can direct you to the right treatment. There are many structures in the spine that could be affected, read on to see what could be causing your pain. Physiotherapy can help with all of symptoms and conditions listed below.
Disc-related pain
Pain with sitting, bending forward, coughing or sneezing is usually indicative of a disc that is unhappy. This does not automatically mean you have a "slipped-disc" - it often signals inflammation or some type of mechanical stress on the disc that is causing the disc to shout for help.
Nerve-related pain
Are you experiencing pain that travels into your arm or leg, together with pins and needles, numbness or weakness? This may indicate irritation of a nerve. Diagnoses such as sciatica, nerve root impingement, trapped nerve, cervical radiculopathy and lumbar radiculopathy usually present with these symptoms.
Facet joint pain
Are you struggling to stand up straight, look up or rotate your head in one direction. It is likely that you have a facet joint that is inflamed or has become stuck. A non-steroidal anti-inflammatory could reduce symptoms temporarily to assist you in getting to a physiotherapist.
Mechanical pain
Are you usually symptom-free when you wake up in the morning but find that your pain worsens as the day goes on? This is usually a sign of mechanical (movement-related) pain. A non-steroidal anti-inflammatory or muscle relaxant could reduce symptoms temporarily to assist you in getting to a physiotherapist.
Muscular pain
If you're experiencing pain with movement, it is possible that you have a muscle spasm that is attempting to guard or protect your spine. Touching the affected muscle may be tender and you may feel a lump or bulge. A muscle relaxant could reduce symptoms temporarily to assist you in getting to a physiotherapist.
Inflammatory pain
Do you have more pain when you wake up in the morning or when moving after long periods of sitting. This is usually a sign that there is a structure that is inflamed. Taking an anti-inflammatory can help temporarily to assist you in getting to a physiotherapist.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Do I need an MRI or X-ray for my back or neck pain?
Not always. Most back and neck pain can be diagnosed through a detailed history and physical assessment. Imaging is usually only recommended when there are signs of a serious underlying condition, significant trauma, or symptoms that are not improving as expected. Many people have MRI or X-ray changes without experiencing any pain.
As first-line practitioners, physiotherapists are able to refer for X-rays when required. Please note, medical aid does not pay for X-rays requested by physiotherapists.
When should I see a doctor?
Physiotherapists are first-line healthcare practitioners, meaning you can see us directly without a referral. Most back and neck pain can be safely assessed and managed by a physiotherapist. However, if we identify signs of a more serious underlying condition or believe further investigation is needed, we'll refer you to the appropriate doctor or specialist.
Should I rest or keep moving?
For most people, gentle movement and staying as active as possible leads to a faster recovery than prolonged bed rest. Physiotherapy can help you understand which movements are safe and which activities should be temporarily modified while you recover.
How do I know if my back pain is serious?
Most episodes of back pain improve with appropriate conservative management. However, seek urgent medical attention if your pain is associated with significant trauma, loss of bladder or bowel control, numbness around the saddle area (between your legs), unexplained weight loss, fever, or rapidly worsening weakness. If you're unsure, we can assess your symptoms and advise whether further medical investigation is needed.
Can physiotherapy help a slipped disc or trapped nerve?
Yes, in many cases. Physiotherapy aims to reduce pain, improve movement and restore function through education, targeted exercises and hands-on treatment where appropriate. Every patient is different, so treatment is tailored to your symptoms and clinical findings.
What do you charge?
MK Physiotherapy charges medical aid rates according to your scheme. Standard consultations duration is 45 min. Treatment plans can be arranged according to your budget, or consider booking a 30 min session.
Will medical aid cover?
Physiotherapy is most often funded from your day-to-day savings (MSA). Should your MSA be depleted, you will be responsible to settle your account with MK Physiotherapy.
​Medical aids offer scheme funded benefits - to see if you qualify call or whatsapp us, we are happy to advise.
How many physiotherapy sessions will I need?
Generally 3 - 6 sessions are advised. However, this depends on your diagnosis, how long you've had symptoms and your individual goals. Some acute conditions improve within a few sessions, while persistent or more complex problems may require a longer rehabilitation programme and ongoing maintenance. Your physiotherapist will discuss an individual treatment plan after your assessment.
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