Back and Neck Clinic at Spire Livingston Clinic
Known as ‘Active Spine Care’ the treatment programme has been researched and developed over that last 20 years by the Finnish company, DBC (Document Based Care International.) This treatment programme is now available to all at the Back and Neck Clinic.
Clear evidence of success
Uniquely comprehensive and evidence based, Active Spine Care has been proven to reduce long-standing and recurring back and neck pain and improve muscle stability, flexibility, endurance and well-being.
Breaking the vicious circle
Sufferers of long-standing back or neck pain will know only too well the vicious circle of pain which usually leads to inactivity, further spinal deterioration and yet more pain.
At our Back and Neck Clinic we aim to break this vicious circle through treatment programmes using specialist equipment with on going support from the Spire Healthcare team and a further programme of home exercises.
How do I know if the programme will help me?
The first step is to visit the Back and neck Clinic for a 45 minute screen conducted by a chartered physiotherapist. This will determine if you would benefit from the treatment. The physiotherapist will explain what is involved, demonstrate the exercise equipment and discuss any concerns you may have.
Because everyone is different, treatment is individually planned. The physiotherapist will recommend a six or twelve week programme based on individual needs. It will start with a baseline assessment which provides our team with the information and measures they need to carefully plan treatment.
What does the programme involve?
Two 75 minute treatment sessions each week. The clinic can accommodate several patients at one time – providing an atmosphere of mutual encouragement. A chartered physiotherapist and physiotherapist technician will be present at all times.
Relaxation between exercises and rest periods between sessions are also important and used to relieve muscle tension. As treatment progresses the physiotherapist will recommend appropriate exercises to do at home and will provide printed guidance to help with this. The ultimate aim of the treatment is to incorporate active spine core principles into daily life.
Individual support
A key reason for the programme’s success is the support and commitment of the specialist physiotherapy team. They recognise the commitment you have made and they will do all they can to ensure the best possible results are achieved.
At the end of the programme there will be a final outcome assessment to measure your progress. However, our support continues and the team are available to offer advice and encouragement to help sustain the improvement achieved.
Methods of payment
Many patients are sponsored by employers and insurers or are referred by consultants, GPs, physiotherapists, occupational health and legal departments. If you are paying for your own treatment, you don’t need a referral from your doctor or other health professional. You can contact the Back and Neck Clinic directly.
Medical Insurance Cover
Some private medical insurers may cover all or part of the cost of the programme. If you are seeking to claim in this way a referral from your consultant or GP is required. You will also need authorisation from your insurer before embarking on the programme. We will be happy to liaise with your insurer, if the initial assessment shows that you are suitable for the programme.
Some frequently asked questions about the Back and Neck programme
What special training does the team have?
The chartered physiotherapists have received specialist training and recognition from DBC International, who developed the treatment concept. The team also includes a medical advisor and physiotherapy technicians who are specially trained to supervise treatment sessions.
What can Spire Healthcare offer if I am not suitable for the programme?
Other forms of physiotherapy treatment may be recommended or you may be referred to a consultant or other health professional. We can usually arrange these appointments at your local Spire Healthcare Hospital.
Will the treatment be uncomfortable?
You may experience slightly increased pain or discomfort during the early stages of treatment. However these symptoms normally subside as you progress through the programme.
Why is the treatment over six or twelve weeks?
Initial research has shown that 24 sessions over 12 weeks are most likely to produce a successful result in patients with long-standing back or neck pain. However for patients whose condition is not chronic and patients who do not want to make a twelve week commitment, we offer the six week programme.
I have already used up some of the physiotherapy benefit on my medical insurance. Does this mean I cannot claim for the Spire Livingston Back and Neck Programme?
Not necessarily. You will need to agree with your insurer what contribution they will make towards the cost of the treatment. We can liaise with your insurer if you wish. When treatment is being funded jointly by the patient and insurer we require full payment from the patient before the treatment programme starts.
