For many the NHS is the first point of contact when seeking treatment for back pain. What can you expect from the NHS and how can you get the best out of what is available?
The NHS has a range of services available that people with back pain may want to use. This section gives information on what you can expect from these services. You should note however that many people find that these treatments and therapies are more effective if combined with self-help techniques. The NHS can help you with finding a programme that works for you, but it is important to be actively involved in your own back pain management.
In order to get the best out of the services available on the NHS, you may want to consult the following resources:
- NHS Choices:
a comprehensive website to help you make choices about your health and finding and using NHS services when you need them. - Questions to ask when visiting your doctor:
a useful guide to get the most out of your appointment with your doctor. - Which? Hospital Companion:
a booklet containing essential information and questions to ask to help patients get the information they need to feel more confident in hospital. Click to download the leaflet. - Hospital Travel Cost Scheme:
a scheme that provides financial help for people on low incomes to help with travel costs, to and from hospitals and other NHS centres. - Standards of Care for Back Pain:
in association with the Arthritis and Musculoskeletal Alliance (ARMA), BackCare has developed standards of care that give recommendations on what types of treatments should be offered and particularly, how, they should be offered. An audit tool has also been developed for healthcare professionals to monitor the standards of their service. - NICE guidelines on low back pain
Alternatively, call the BackCare Helpline (0845 130 2704) for more information.