What it is
A poorly set up workstation can lead to pain in the neck, shoulders, back, arms, wrists and hands. Sitting at a desk for a long time with bad posture is one of the most common causes of neck pain. Back pain is less clear-cut: it is not always obvious what causes it, and it often gets better on its own. What I usually find is not one bad habit but a whole day of small ones.
Your first assessment
I take a case history and examine you, and I explain what I am doing before I do it. I ask you to make simple movements and stretches so I can see how you hold yourself and how you move. Along with hands-on treatment, you get advice on posture, lifting and how your workstation is set up.
What a plan usually involves
Treatment is hands-on, with self-help advice and exercises to support recovery, and every plan I build combines hands-on treatment with movement-based rehabilitation and education. Most neck pain only lasts a few weeks, and back pain usually improves within a few weeks; the work is stopping it coming back. After your first appointment I give you a realistic estimate of how many sessions you may need.
When a doctor needs to be involved
If something about your symptoms worries you, see a GP or call 111 first.
No GP referral needed. If your assessment shows you need imaging, an injection or a specialist opinion, I refer you directly to a sports and exercise medicine doctor, and your osteopathic care continues with me.
For employers
I also run posture and movement workshops and workstation assessments for teams in Canary Wharf and Marylebone. Details are on the Corporate wellness page.
