Expert Care
for Body
& Spine

A chiropractor is a healthcare professional concerned with the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of mechanical disorders of the musculoskeletal system, and the effects of these disorders on the nervous system and general health. There is an emphasis on manual treatments including spinal manipulation and adjustment (World Federation of Chiropractic, 2001).

A landmark Medical Research Council clinical trial, published in the British Medical Journal (Meade et al., 1990; 1995), found that chiropractic treatment of back pain was significantly more effective than hospital outpatient treatment, with benefits maintained at three-year follow-up.

More recently, a 2017 JAMA Network Open study found spinal manipulative therapy provided statistically significant improvements in both pain and function for acute low back pain. NICE guidelines (2016, updated 2020) now recommend manual therapy — including spinal manipulation — as a first-line treatment for low back pain, alongside exercise.

All UK chiropractors are regulated by the General Chiropractic Council (GCC), which sets standards of education, conduct and practice.

On arrival you will be asked to complete a medical history and consent form. Please wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing for your appointment.

Your chiropractor will take a detailed history of your complaint along with relevant lifestyle, occupational and medical background. This is followed by a thorough physical, postural and orthopaedic examination.

If clinically indicated, you may be referred for X-ray or MRI imaging. Based on the findings, your chiropractor will explain their diagnosis clearly and propose a personalised treatment plan, including the expected number of sessions and realistic treatment goals.

An initial consultation lasts approximately 45 minutes, allowing sufficient time for a thorough history, examination and first treatment where appropriate.

Follow-up appointments are 20–30 minutes. We never rush our consultations — understanding the root cause of your problem is essential to effective treatment.

Depending on your clinical presentation and past medical history, further investigations such as X-rays or MRI scans may be recommended. These help confirm diagnosis, rule out contraindications and guide treatment planning.

We work closely with leading radiologists and imaging centres across London to ensure fast, high-quality results. Where appropriate, we will liaise directly with your GP or specialist.

Chiropractic treatment is widely regarded as one of the safest forms of manual healthcare when performed by a qualified, GCC-registered practitioner. Serious adverse events are extremely rare.

A 2020 systematic review published in Chiropractic & Manual Therapies confirmed that the most common side effects are mild and transient — typically temporary soreness in the treated area, which typically resolves within 24 hours.

Your chiropractor will conduct a full assessment before any treatment to identify any contraindications and ensure the most appropriate technique is used for your condition.

This varies considerably depending on your age, the nature, severity and duration of your condition. Acute problems often respond quickly — sometimes within 3 to 6 sessions. Chronic or complex conditions may require a longer course of treatment.

Following your initial assessment, your chiropractor will give you a realistic treatment plan with clear milestones. We regularly reassess progress and adapt the plan accordingly. Our goal is always to discharge you as quickly as possible and equip you with the tools to maintain your own health.

Yes — Sloane Square Chiropractors is recognised by all major UK health insurers including BUPA, AXA Health, Vitality, Aviva, WPA and Cigna. We recommend contacting your insurer prior to your first appointment to confirm your level of cover and obtain any required authorisation code.

We are happy to liaise directly with your insurer where needed to facilitate your claim.

We treat a wide range of musculoskeletal and neurological conditions including back pain, neck pain, sciatica, disc protrusions, sports injuries, headaches, shoulder pain, hip and knee pain, postural problems and BPPV (vertigo) using the Epley Manoeuvre.

We also offer high pressure cryotherapy, kinesiology taping and spinal traction as part of our rehabilitation services. If you are unsure whether we can help with your condition, please call us on +44 20 7730 3031 and we will be happy to advise.

No — although we receive many patients who have been actively referred either by their GP or a Medical Consultant, you can self-refer directly to our clinic without a GP referral. Simply call us on +44 20 7730 3031 or email [email protected] to book an appointment.

However, if your health insurer requires a GP referral letter for reimbursement purposes, we recommend checking this with them before your first visit.