Coming soon
Back & Chronic Pain
Assessment and rehabilitation for back pain and long-standing pain.
- Treatment time
- Around 45–60 minutes
- Downtime
- None
About Back & Chronic Pain
Back pain and long-standing pain are Romulo's main focus; he ran his own clinic in Scotland specialising in chronic pain and spinal problems. He looks beyond where it hurts to the reasons the pain has persisted: how you move, your work and sleep, previous treatment, and what the pain has stopped you doing.
Treatment combines a clear explanation of what is happening, hands-on treatment where it helps, and a progressive exercise plan, with other modalities such as shockwave used only where appropriate.
Key Benefits
- 01Care from a physiotherapist who focuses on long-standing pain
- 02A clear explanation of what is driving your pain
- 03A plan built around your life and goals
- 04Exercise rehabilitation to rebuild strength and confidence
- 05Referral back to your GP if anything needs further investigation
Is this treatment right for me?
This suits people with back or neck pain, sciatica-type symptoms or pain that has lasted months or years, including those who feel other treatment hasn't helped.
You may be suitable if…
- You have back or neck pain, or pain spreading into a leg or arm
- Your pain has lasted more than a few weeks
- Pain is affecting your work, sleep or activities
- You'd like a fresh, thorough assessment
Your consultation will consider…
- Warning signs that need urgent medical assessment
- Your history, scans and previous treatment
- Your work, activity and sleep
- What you want to get back to doing
What to expect
Before treatment
Your first appointment is a full physiotherapy assessment with Romulo. He'll ask about your symptoms, how and when they started, your medical history, your work and activities, and what you'd like to get back to doing. Bring any scans, letters or reports you have. Wear comfortable clothing that lets him see and move the area being treated.
During treatment
Sessions combine assessment, hands-on treatment where helpful, and exercises Romulo progresses with you over time. He explains each step so you understand why you're doing it.
After treatment
You'll have exercises and advice to follow at home. Gentle, regular activity usually helps more than resting completely.
Results & longevity
Long-standing pain usually improves gradually rather than all at once, and progress isn't always in a straight line. Romulo will set realistic goals with you and review them regularly. Results vary from person to person.
Recovery, side effects & aftercare
There is no downtime. Some soreness after new exercises is normal and settles as you get used to them.
Side effects
Temporary soreness after treatment or new exercises is common. Symptoms can briefly flare before improving; Romulo will adjust the plan if they do.
Aftercare
Keep up the exercises and advice Romulo gives you; they matter as much as the treatment in clinic. Stay gently active rather than resting completely, unless he has told you otherwise, and note how your symptoms respond so you can discuss it at your next session.
Please contact the clinic if your pain becomes much worse after treatment, or if you have any concern. Seek urgent medical help (NHS 111, or 999 in an emergency) for new numbness around the groin or buttocks, new problems controlling your bladder or bowels, weakness in the legs, or chest pain.
- Downtime
- None for most people
- Redness
- Occasionally mild redness over the treated area, settling within hours
- Swelling
- Not expected
- Bruising
- Uncommon
- Normal activities
- Usually straight away; Romulo will tell you if anything should be avoided for a day or two
Frequently Asked Questions
I've had back pain for years. Can physiotherapy still help?
Often, yes. Romulo will assess you and be honest about what he thinks is achievable.
When should I see a doctor urgently?
If you develop numbness around the groin or buttocks, problems controlling your bladder or bowels, or weakness in your legs, seek urgent medical help (NHS 111, or 999 in an emergency) rather than waiting for an appointment.
Will I need a scan?
Most back pain doesn't need a scan. If Romulo thinks one is needed, he'll explain why and how to arrange it.
How many sessions will I need?
It depends on the problem and how long you've had it. After your assessment Romulo will give you a written plan with the number of sessions he recommends, so you can decide before committing to anything.
Do I need a GP referral?
No. You can book directly. If Romulo finds anything that needs a doctor's attention or a scan, he will tell you and explain the next step.
Can I claim on private medical insurance?
Some insurers cover treatment by an HCPC registered physiotherapist. Please check with your insurer before booking, as policies differ.
Your Practitioner
Romulo Costa
HCPC Registered Physiotherapist
Romulo is an HCPC registered physiotherapist with more than a decade's experience, from intensive care and rehabilitation to musculoskeletal medicine and long-standing pain. He trained in Brazil, where he ran his own rehabilitation clinic, before moving to Scotland and running his own clinic in Motherwell specialising in chronic pain and spinal problems. He starts by listening: to understand not just where it hurts, but what the pain has stopped you doing and why it hasn't settled. Every plan is built on a thorough assessment and explained clearly, with shockwave, laser and hands-on treatment used only where they have a clear purpose.