When Should You See a Physiotherapist for Back, Neck or Shoulder Pain?
Back, neck and shoulder pain are incredibly common, especially if you work at a desk, spend long hours sitting, or train regularly.
Many people put off seeing a physiotherapist because they’re unsure whether their pain is “bad enough”, or whether it will settle on its own.
This guide will help you understand when physiotherapy is appropriate, what to expect, and how it can help you move more confidently again.
Common reasons people delay physiotherapy
It’s very normal to wait and see if pain improves on its own. People often delay because they:
Don’t want to overreact
Think pain is “just part of getting older”
Are busy with work or training
Aren’t sure what physiotherapy actually involves
In some cases, symptoms do settle. But ongoing pain, stiffness, or recurring flare-ups are often a sign that your body needs more targeted support.
Signs it may be time to see a physiotherapist
You don’t need to be in severe pain to benefit from physiotherapy.
It’s worth seeking an assessment if you’re experiencing any of the following:
Pain that has lasted more than a few weeks
Stiffness or restriction with everyday movements
Pain that keeps returning, even after rest
Discomfort linked to desk work or prolonged sitting
Pain during or after exercise or gym training
Reduced confidence moving your body
Pain that is affecting sleep, work, or concentration
Physiotherapy isn’t just about pain relief, it’s about understanding why symptoms are happening and how to prevent them recurring.
What physiotherapy can help with
Physiotherapy can support a wide range of musculoskeletal problems, including:
Back pain and stiffness
Neck and shoulder pain
Desk-related aches and postural pain
Sports and gym-related injuries
Overuse or training-related niggles
Reduced mobility or confidence with movement
Treatment is always tailored to the individual, based on your symptoms, lifestyle, and goals.
What happens during a physiotherapy assessment?
Your first physiotherapy appointment is a chance to properly understand what’s going on.
A typical assessment includes:
A detailed discussion about your symptoms and history
Movement assessment to understand how your body is functioning
Hands-on treatment where appropriate
Clear explanation of what’s contributing to your pain
A personalised plan to help you recover and move more confidently
Physiotherapy should never feel rushed or generic, it should feel specific to you.
Do you need a GP referral?
No, you don’t need a GP referral to see a physiotherapist.
You can book directly, and physiotherapy often helps people avoid unnecessary scans, prolonged pain, or repeated flare-ups.
How many sessions will you need?
This varies from person to person and depends on:
How long symptoms have been present
Your activity levels
Your goals (pain relief, return to sport, long-term management)
Some people feel improvement after just a few sessions, while others benefit from a short course of treatment combined with guided exercises.
This is something you’ll discuss together during your assessment.
Physiotherapy that fits around work and life
One of the most common reasons people delay treatment is time.
Physiotherapy should fit around your life, not add stress to it.
Evening and weekend appointments make it easier to access treatment without taking time off work or rearranging your schedule.
When in doubt, an assessment brings clarity
If you’re unsure whether physiotherapy is right for you, an assessment provides clarity and reassurance.
Even when pain feels manageable, understanding what’s happening can prevent it from becoming a longer-term issue.
If you’re dealing with back, neck, or shoulder pain, or feel less confident moving than you’d like, physiotherapy can help you move forward with confidence.
Book a Physiotherapy Assessment
A one-to-one assessment focused on understanding your symptoms, reducing pain, and helping you move with confidence again.