Hedd's approach to pain is grounded in science and clinical reasoning.  The first step is to gather as much relevant information as possible about your symptoms, identify the most likely cause, and make recommendations based on the best available evidence.  In some cases, this may include referring you back to your GP or arranging further investigations, such as imaging scans, where appropriate.

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A key part of the process is helping you to understand your pain: how it developed, why it persists and what you can do to improve it.  Hedd's clinical approach has led him to abandon the use of manipulation.  This reflects a modern understanding of pain, which shows that most acute or recent cases of back pain improve naturally over a short time.  In  these situations thorough assessment, reassurance and practical advice are the most effective forms of treatment.

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However, when pain has been present for a few months or has become a significant feature of your daily life, a different approach than manual therapy is needed.  Research has shown that persistent, recurring or long-term pain is not caused by issues that respond well to manipulation, massage or other similar hands-on treatment.

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Current evidence suggests that, in the absence of an underlying condition such as an inflammatory disease, ongoing pain can be explained by an over-protective nervous system.  For this reason, a comprehensive consultation looks beyond the painful area itself and considers overall factors such as your overall health, sleep quality, stress levels, work demands, physical activity and general well-being.

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We understand that discussing these aspects of your life can feel personal and may not initially seem connected to your symptoms, especially when many still see back pain as a mechanical problem that can be identified and fixed only by manual therapy.  Nevertheless, these factors play a crucial role in how pain develops and persists, so we ask that you are open to exploring them.

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This is not a talking therapy, nor is there any implication that the pain is "all in your head".  Your pain is real.  The goal is to help you identify and understand the factors influencing it and to provide practical strategies for reducing pain, improving mobility and restoring physical function.

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It may be helpful to think of this process as coaching yourself back to a more active, comfortable and fulfilling life.  Like any coach, Hedd can guide, educate and support you, but lasting change comes from the steps you take yourself.

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