Frequently asked questions
What is back2normal?
back2normal is a clinic that combines unique spinal strengthening technology with expert physiotherapy, and other treatments to provide a holistic and comprehensive approach to your pain. We specialise in back and neck pain but our experienced team also treat all other musculoskeletal problems including shoulders, knees and hips. back2normal was founded by Colin Natali, a consultant orthopaedic surgeon
What is DBC?
DBC is Document Based Care, our spinal strengthening treatment. It has been proven to benefit most patients who have suffered low back or neck pain. It is an evidence based approach whereby people can specifically strengthen their core muscles in a controlled environment. Initially you would be assessed by one of our highly trained physiotherapists who will determine whether you are suitable to participate. Please contact our team to find out more about the treatment.
What does the DBC treatment involve?
First of all you would have an initial assessment with one of our skilled physiotherapists, which lasts up to 90 minutes. This involves a physical examination, filling in a questionnaire about your symptoms, testing your range of motion and if appropriate your muscular endurance. This assessment determines whether DBC treatment is suitable for you. If so, a customised programme will be developed for your needs. The programme usually involves 2 treatment sessions of around 60 minutes per week, for a variable number of weeks, dependant on your individual condition.
How much does treatment cost?
The cost of your treatment will depend on your individually tailored programme and the number of treatment sessions you need. The number of sessions is determined during your initial assessment. Typically the costs are similar per-hour to London based Physiotherapy treatment.
How does it work?
It has been clinically proven that people with persistent back or neck pain develop a weakness in their core muscles. The main purpose of these muscles is to help support the load going through your spine. When this starts to fail a vicious cycle of pain and subsequently weakness is created. Our specially designed machines isolate these specific muscles and enable you to exercise them within a controlled range of movement and load. Through the programme you will increase your flexibility and strength of your spine giving you a sustained solution to your symptoms.
Will it be painful?
All the DBC machines are specifically designed so that the physiotherapist has control of your movement and load while you are exercising. This ensures you can't hurt yourself while training, as each programme will be tailored to your specific condition.
What are my chances of getting better?
We are the only clinic in the South of England to measure our patient’s perceived pain and the irritability of their symptoms before and after their treatment programme. This means we can statistically monitor your progress. Currently the clinic has an 82% reduction in our patient’s pain and 85% reduction in their back pain irritability.
Can I just have normal physiotherapy treatments?
Yes, you can. All our physiotherapists have a wealth of experience and an excellent skill base to deal with any problem you may have. Our physiotherapists are highly experienced in all forms of physiotherapy such as acute sports injuries or rehabilitation work.
How long will it take?
The initial programme will last for around six weeks depending on your condition. You will be required to attend twice a week in order to fully strengthen your core muscles.
Can I use DBC after back or neck surgery?
Absolutely. Our unique approach is ideal for people who have undergone surgery. Our unique technology is specifically designed so we are able to control your range of movement and load making it an ideal, safe approach for our post surgical patients.
Will I need to continue exercising after my treatment?
Our aim at back2normal is to give you complete control of your problem. We will therefore give you all the postural advice and exercises you will need to maintain your gains if your condition requires it. We do however understand not everybody likes to exercise so don’t worry we won’t be bombarding you with exercises just for the sake of it!
What do I need to do to get started?
If you have private medical cover you will need to contact them first to make sure you are covered. Generally you will need to be seen by either your GP or a consultant before us to get a referral letter. Once you have authorisation give us a call and we will arrange your assessment. We are covered by all major insurance companies. Even if you do not have health insurance please give us a call and we will talk through our prices with you.
How do insurance claims work?
Once you have been authorised for your treatment by your insurance company we will work directly with them leaving you free to concentrate on getting better.
Do I need to bring anything?
Please bring all letters, MRI scans and any documents we have asked you to fill out with you for your initial consultation. Please also bring a change of clothes to enable us to examine and assess you. You may be required to go into our gym so again please bring something appropriate.
Where are you based?
Our closest stations are London Bridge and Tower Hill. London Bridge is accessed by the Northern and Jubilee underground service or various overland services. Alternatively you can get to us from Tower Bridge underground station which is served by the district line. Both stations are a 10 minute walk from the clinic.
Do you have a cancellation policy?
Please try to arrive on time or notify us if you expect to be late. You will be charged the full amount for your appointment if you do not arrive or do not cancel it with 24 hours notice.
What are your opening hours?
The clinic is open from 8am – 6pm Monday to Friday we always aim to be as flexible as possible with our appointments but if you do require certain times please try and book well in advance.
What conditions do you treat?
We treat a wide variety of conditions which is really too long to list here. If you are unsure whether back2normal can help you just give our team a call, they will be happy to discuss your treatment options in greater detail.
If you have a question that is not answered here please contact us.