Can Stress Cause Back Pain?
It was not long ago that stress and emotional state of mind were linked to back pain by only the more esoteric health practitioners. However, recent research seems to suggest that there is a definite link and there’s hard science to back that up; stress not only can cause back pain but can amplify that pain and impede recovery. Let’s look at the science and (just as importantly) what we can do to use this information to aid the recovery from back pain.
When we are stressed the part of the brain called the amygdala is stimulated and creates various changes in the hypothalamus and brain stem. Essentially, our primitive survival reflex takes over and channels all our energy and blood supply to the muscles that help us fight or run away (fight or flight). These muscles are the bigger ones, such as those for running e.g. thigh, buttock etc. The smaller stabilising muscles are not deemed a priority and, along with the digestive system, are minimised. Also blood pressure and heart rate is raised.
Think about prehistoric times when a caveman spots a tiger coming his way – his priority is to ensure survival, so all energy is directed to running away. Once this has been achieved, the survival mechanism should be shut down and normalcy returns. Unfortunately, modern society has left us in a constant state of stress so that back pain, irritable bowel syndrome and elevated blood pressure is not uncommon.
Pain perception is also very much a function of the brain and can be affected by stress and emotional states. The traditional model of pain being caused by damage to human tissues (e.g. muscles) is being questioned by experts.
It appears the brain merely needs to perceive the potential threat of tissue damage, whether this results in injury or not. Thus the perception of an event is important in pain levels, and perception can be influenced by stress and emotional state.
Once the condition has become chronic, for instance back pain for over 3 months, a unique set of circumstances occur that make it a lot harder to resolve. Firstly, the pain often leads us to reduce activity which leads to further stiffness in the back and weakness of the surrounding spinal muscles.
Also we often develop a fear of causing more pain through movement and exercise. The generally deteriorating situation causes worry about what the future holds, particularly the impact of not being able to do everyday activities such as work, sports etc. Unfortunately, these negative emotions can create a vicious cycle of a worsening condition.
The answer to these problems is multi-factorial but the easiest solution is to deal with any back pain as soon as possible to avoid chronicity. Failing that , identify and reduce negative stresses in your life. Also find a chiropractor who is willing to act as a coach to prescribe exercises that are within your capability but create enough exertion to build up your endurance and strength. The chiropractor should also be encouraging, to help you engage in the exercise but also inspire confidence when you have minor niggles and aches. In your process of recovery it is essential that you slowly build up confidence in being more active.
Perhaps most importantly it is necessary to realise that chronic pain can lead to a down turn in your emotional state and increase in anxiety which can lead to vicious cycle of deterioration.
To discuss any aspect of this blog, or any concerns you may have in regards to stress and its impact on your back pain, please phone 0113 2289888 to speak to either myself or another fully qualified chiropractor in our team.
Mark Butterworth
B.Sc Chiro D.C (Aust) M.C.C C.S.C.P
Our Clients
Kate Hales
22:25 13 Feb 22
Sarah has been my chiropractor for a couple of years and seen me through some pretty darn painful times. She gives wonderful explanations based on her initial assessment and useful advice for coping and healing at home. Her treatments have got me through some really bad patches with my lower back.
She is knowledgeable, friendly, and trustworthy.
I'd recommend her to anyone, and regularly do!
Thank you also to the reception team who are always professional and polite.read more
Julia Evans
21:25 10 Feb 22
I contacted Headingley Chiropractic Clinic in early January because I needed help with painful and debilitating hip pain, which was limiting daily life and preventing sleep. Mark Butterworth had been recommended to me and I was pleased to be able to arrange an initial consultation and subsequent treatment. Mark listened carefully, assessed the situation and, following X-ray confirmation, has reduced the pain and increased my mobility successfully. I can sleep again without pain and after four treatment sessions I have much improved flexibility. Mark has been thorough and very professional. I have very much appreciated the warmth and helpfulness of all the staff. I have never used the services of a chiropractor before, and am very impressed and appreciative.read more
Joan Hewitt
17:56 08 Feb 22
I have visited Mark for various injuries and strains over many years. Sometimes I have been in excruciating pain. Mark has identified the problem and very soon I am free of pain and back in working order. My hip joints, neck muscles, head, finger, shoulders and jaw have all benefitted beyond any expectation from Mark's expertise. I recommend him highly.read more
Phoebe Murphy
19:53 22 Jan 22
so helpful!! everyone is so lovely and Sarah is a brilliant chiropractor. don't know what I'd do without her! i cannot overstate how absolutely lovely everyone who works here is!read more
HarryMalarkey
20:42 08 Jan 22
I went to see Mark with moderate sciatica and the remains of a pretty severe undiagnosed shoulder injury, likely a naturally healed torn rotator cuff. The sciatica was cured with roughly 6 sessions combining cracking, acupuncture and massage. The shoulder was challenging to fix, but Mark was able to identify an issue with the fascia in my upper pectoral muscle which had become horrifically tight due to imbalance. He was able to release this with a massaging technique. I am now free of pain. Were I to have any other sports injuries or similar I would definitely go to Mark.read more
Jack Coates
14:42 31 Dec 21
I have been seeing Mark on and off now for a few years, and honestly didn't think my problems would get any better.
After around a month or so of treatment, my problems began to be relieved, and I started to feel better. After longer than a month of treatment, I got to the stage where my the pain didn't begin to reappear.
Every few years when my back begins to hurt again, I pop in to see Mark knowing full well that the problems I'm facing can be solved. I would highly recommend Mark to anybody with chronic back pain.
Mark is a very good listener, and very meticulous in his assessments, which in return has created treatment perfectly tailored to me.
I'd also like to thank every single member of the reception team for being so polite, and looking after me very well.read more
Richard Gars
05:46 15 Dec 21
I have been going to see Sarah now for over 15 years and she has helped me out alot with my bad back due to me been in a car crash and only recently I got mugged and punched and I had everything stolen from me and during that time my back came alot worse but now I have started up my appointments again with Sarah she’s really amazing and she’s so far throughout my life she’s help me and now I thankyou Sarah you are amazing and I will continue seeing Sarah at headingley chiropractic not just Sarah but the other members of staff are great amazing very helpful I will keep on going I definitely recommend headingley chiropractic every time but Sarah thankyou from the bottom of my heart u are amazingread more
Kim Williamson
16:14 13 Dec 21
Amazing treatment from Mark over the years for back, neck and joint issues. Very comprehensive and knowledgeable. He starts by relieving the pain, improving my flexibility and working on the root cause. His advise to help avoid further issues is always well received and valuable. Great clinic, would highly recommend.read more
Scarlett Devlin
14:54 07 Nov 21
When I went to Headingly Chiropractic Clinic I was unable to lift my right leg, and I was having problems getting dressed. After only a few sessions with Mark my leg was back to normal. I can't express how pleased I was with the excellent service I received and have recommended the clinic to friends and family. The office staff are also very friendly and efficient, sending out appointment reminders and rearranging bookings when necessary.read more
Sue Hepworth
16:56 06 Oct 21
First impressions from my phone call was, very professional and very friendly. Caroline, thank you for your help. I will definitely be visiting the practice soon.read more
CHRISTINE SPINELLI
19:05 22 Sep 21
I first visited the clinic 6 weeks ago with lower back pain and a pinched nerve which radiated all the way down the leg and were aggravated by accumulated stress and pain induced sleep deprivation. Although the pain had escalated to 24/7 agony I was only offered GP tel. consultations and painkillers. In desperation I started researching who could help and came to the conclusion that chiropractic treatment was probably my best chance and furthermore that there was a long-standing clinic a 5mns drive from my home.
Despite having driven or walked past countless times over the years I had never imagined I would one day be in need of their services. The word itself, chiropractic, sounds a little bit daunting however in reality the treatment is anything but. From my first consultation I could sense a real passion for wanting me to recover. There is a satisfying feeling gradual adjustments to the spine are returning it to its original alignment and former flexibility. The changes are very subtle but they will astound you by the difference they make to your wellbeing on a day to day basis. After an adjustment I always try to have an hour's rest and relaxation hypnosis to help imprint the alterations that have been made and drink plenty of water to re-hydrate inter-vertebrae disks.
Mark has also done cervical adjustments on my neck as a result of which the recurring headaches I had been suffering from all my life and had come to accept as inevitable seem to have disappeared.
This whole episode in ill-health has been a powerful lesson for me and made me acutely aware how important it is to listen to what our body is trying to tell us. There is no pressure to have treatments ad infinitum at HCC but for my part I do not consider recovery as an end in itself but as an opportunity to have regular check-ups to ensure good habits recovered are not abandoned again.
I owe a debt of gratitude to Mark for helping me to return to a pain-free life. There is in my opinion a strong case for GPs to work with 'alternative medicine' rather than against it when patients could be returned to full health much sooner or future ailments could be anticipated and prevented.
Thank you also to the reception team who offer an attentive, caring and well informed service.read more
Christopher Duffin
08:48 03 Sep 21
After having a lot of trouble with my back for years I thought is just have to live with it. These guys completely changed that - fully recommended.
Nabby Moore
16:08 26 Aug 21
I cannot express how impressed I am feeling with the treatment I am receiving at HCC. I felt full confidence in my diagnosis and relief at the obvious depth of understanding, experience & knowledge. Although I am at an early stage with my treatment, I am already feeling the benefit from the sessions I have attended. I have also found the Receptionists extremely welcoming, friendly and accommodating which is always a bonus.read more
Francesca B.
21:12 15 Feb 21
I have had a lot of discomfort and tension in my back, neck and shoulders over the past few years, exacerbated by working from home during lockdown. Having had treatment for a few weeks from Mark since Jan 2021, my discomfort has now gone and my mobility has improved immensely. The treatments I've had have been professional, considerate and friendly. Would highly recommend coming to Headingley Chiropractic Clinic. I'm very glad I decided to make my first appointment!read more
Joanne Heselwood
16:15 14 Feb 21
Friendly staff and I am receiving excellent treatment. I am more flexible now and can walk further as the weeks go by. The pain I have is reducing and it is reasonably priced for the great service you receive. I definitely recommend.read more
Sally Ryan
22:29 07 Feb 21
My family and I have been going to see Mark for twenty years. He always listens attentively and has helped with many back and joint issues over the years. He is an excellent chiropractor who also picked up that we all had flat feet and needed insoles which helped with hip and back problems. Highly recommendedread more
Nicky Prys-Jones
12:43 03 Feb 21
I've been seeing Mark over a period of several years for treatment of my lower back problems and to help to manage my chronic migraines. I have no hesitation in recommending this practice. There is always a warm welcome, nothing is ever too much trouble and this hasn't changed, despite the advent of the Covid-19 crisis.
The treatment i have received from Mark has made a tremendous difference to my mobility and discomfort. Thank you!!read more
Ben Davison
18:24 02 Feb 21
I've been seeing Mark and the team at Headingley Chiropractic for 3 years now. The quality of the treatment and the service is exceptional - not only do they treat your symptoms, but also help you with exercise and other recommendations to treat the root cause.
Where I've had a group of issues at the same time, they've always taken the time to treat all of them - it's never rushed or pressured - and they've also made time to see me at short notice where I've needed it.
My wellbeing has improved significantly since starting regular treatment and tune-ups with Headingley Chriropractic. I've recommended the service to many of friends and colleagues and all have been delighted with the treatment they have received.
Thank you Mark and team.read more
simon roche
13:55 01 Feb 21
Can’t recommend them enough - Improvements to flexibility, pain in my neck, jaw and shoulders gone. It’s been a fundamental process for my fitness goals and has helped to deliver improved athletic performance. Really high professional standards of cleanliness throughout the COVID pandemic has been very reassuring.read more
Mark Barker
17:44 14 Jan 21
I booked in for two lower back sessions whilst I was staying in the area. Mark was highly professional with a hands on approach and made a big difference in a short space of time - definitely recommended.read more
Rachel Levy
16:40 24 Dec 20
Sarah is wonderful. I’ve had a bad back for 4 years and have seen plenty of Physios the only person that gives me instant relief and has helped us Sarah. All the staff at the clinic are professional and really friendly and welcoming. In current times they follow brilliant protocol to keep us safe. Just great!read more
jonathan schofield
13:37 27 Nov 20
Very professional and a lovely environment. I saw Mark Butterworth after suffering with back and posture issues for most of my adult life, he was extremely knowledgeable and I felt in very safe hands. I felt a difference after just a couple of appointments and could physically see the difference it was making with the alignmemt of my upper body. After a few weeks I felt so much better and can now sit up straight pain free. Thank you!read more
Stephen Rollinson
15:11 30 Sep 20
After suffering back problems for a number of years and despite attending other Chiropractors, it is only now, that following treatment from Mark Butterworth, i am pain free.
He is extremely professional and friendly and also talks you through the procedures required. All work is done in a very safe environment.
Thank you Mark
Steveread more
Callum Quinn
11:41 12 Sep 20
Before visiting Headingly Chiropractic Clinic, I was having discomfort in my back and arms/wrists, stopping me from playing my musical instrument (my profession). After a series of sessions with Mark, my discomfort began to disappear and I was able to resume my regular day to day routines.
Mark and the rest of the staff at HCC are very friendly and helpful, making my visits both relaxed and straight forward. The informed approach to patient care is 5 star and I would recommend their service to anyone suffering with back or wrist issues. I have been extremely pleased with the service I have been receiving over the past couple of months!read more
Samantha Limbert
18:55 31 Aug 20
After suffering many years of neck and shoulder pain and migraine attacks I decided to try Headingley Chiropractic Clinic. I had tried everything else; I was worried about how much pain relief I was using on a daily basis. It was one of the best decisions I have ever made. Mark really got to the route of my problems and was quickly able to identify the source of the pain. Even after my first session I felt huge relief, I am now pain free for the first time in years. I would not hesitate to recommend this practice, it has exceeded all my expectations. Thank you Mark.read more
Lorraine Yang
20:50 15 Aug 20
Had a chronic really bad asthmatic cough that couldn't be fixed. One day I coughed so hard that I managed to pull some muscle and literally couldn't walk. Partner had to cab to the nearest place for help and this was it. Luckily, I was in a lot less pain after visiting them, and in 2-3 visits recovered completely. Not cheap, but probably worth your money.read more
Hamoun Talebei
11:27 07 Jul 20
I had a complicated neck problem For over 6 months due to going to the wrong chiropractic clinic. I called Headingley chiropractic clinic and told them it was an emergency. They quickly booked me in and after 4 weeks 6-7 sessions my neck was 99% back to normal. I will be visiting them again in a months time to get that 1% figured out. Couldn’t thank them enough and would highly recommend to any one.read more
sally rhodes
14:23 23 Jun 20
I highly recommend this clinic.I was suffering from lower back pain that had become unbearable and due to the covid -19 lockdown had been unable to consult anyone. I called the clinic following a personal recommendation and discovered that as it had just opened up for emergency treatment, I was able to attend for an initial consultation. Following his diagnosis of a herniated disc and sciatica-Mark Butterworth has been treating me and I now have nearly a full range of movement. As I come to the end of the treatment programme, I am virtually pain free day and night -and can resume normal activities -including sleeping! The clinic is very efficiently run -despite having had to adapt processes and systems virtually overnight as a result of the pandemic. Mark and Clare are thoroughly professional, welcoming, and reassuring and are vigilant about keeping patients safe by following the current stringent health and safety guidelines to the letter.read more
Afaf Elhamedi
14:00 28 May 20
Thank you very much for seeing me today as an emergency patient after suffering from severe back pain and sciatica during this lockdown period. I would highly recommend this clinic.read more
Trish Wright
18:24 21 Mar 20
Achieved more pain relief in two months than years of doctors or physiotherapy have.
Delighted with Mark's treatments.
Cannot recommend highly enough!
Martin Almond
14:58 13 Mar 20
I've been a patient at HCC under the care of Mark for a considerable amount of years now. From start to finish you will receive a lovely personel, professional & caring attitude. I have always been made to feel welcome in a relaxed atmosphere.
Mark has worked wonders on my posture & I've come home pain free.
I would highly reccomend this practice to anyone, you will not be dissapointed.
Always look forward to the coffee too.read more
K L
22:01 12 Dec 19
Initially unsure about going to a chiropractor, I was happy to see that this Clinic already had really great reviews and after nearly 4 months of treatment I have seen significant improvement in myself. I have suffered with old muscular injuries that healed incorrectly and poor posture and both have improved significantly, if not completely, over the course of my treatment. I am pleasantly surprised. The team is truly lovely; professional, friendly they create a really relaxed atmosphere, its a lovely facility too so you feel right at home. The chiropractors are also all great, I have been being treated by Mark who is professional and knowledgable and I have received a successful treatment and an enjoyable experience. Would absolutely recommend! (Also student friendly as they have a good discount.)read more
Faye M
23:01 09 Dec 19
I have been visiting the clinic since I had bad pelvic pain and SPD in pregnancy, nothing had worked (inc physio) but Laetitia was able to identify and fix the problem within a couple of sessions, she is a miracle worker! I have visited her and Sarah at the clinic, both of whom are incredibly knowledgeable, professional and lovely people. The ethos is to reduce reliance on their services through exercises and lifestyle changes - they don’t want you to be a regular customer..!read more
# MuzakShack
21:23 26 Nov 19
Mike Outterside & Family, North Leeds. The team at Headingley Chiropractic Clinic have helped 4 members of my family (teenagers and parents) with sports related Musculoskeletal problems, both acute and chronic, including backs, knees and shoulders. We've all had successful outcomes, being able to resume sports activities and have improved quality of life. The practice is friendly and relaxed, highly professional and trustworthy and we highly recommend them. Thanks!read more
Michael and June Caulfield
17:19 01 Nov 19
My wife has long standing head, neck and shoulder pain and has had treatment from the pain clinic and various physios with little or no long term success.
Since seeing Mark, her condition has improved remarkably. Neck pain has reduced considerably and her shoulder and head pains have reduced and are now bearable. She is improving weekly and we are looking forward to an eventual complete recovery.
We highly recommend this practiceread more
alice contact
17:21 14 Oct 19
Sarah at Headingly Chiropractic Clinic has worked wonders - she has helped me overcome numerous problems including migraines and back pain. Sarah uses seemingly movements that are incredibly effective and mean I can move more freely, escape pain and continue to work. It's also a real pleasure visiting as Sarah is so warm and friendly, along with all the reception team. I can't recommend it highly enough!read more
Russell
15:01 01 Oct 19
Started seeing Mark at Headingley Chiropractic a few months ago to try to help with severe back pain that was making even walking difficult. Mark identified the problem and, although quite a few sessions were needed, was able to relieve the pain, to the point where my pain has now completely subsided and I'm able to play sports again! The other staff have been excellent too.read more
Catherine Black
21:28 24 Sep 19
Mark and the team at Headingley Chiropractic Clinic are very professional from the very start of your treatment ensuring that all your background health issues and lifestyle are taken into consideration. I would highly recommend Mark @ Headingley Chiropractic Clinic.read more
Deborah B
11:48 19 Sep 19
In just a few months Mark has been able to help me sort out a back issue that has plagued me for years! Other chiropractors and physiotherapists hadn't even come close. All the staff are lovely, and I feel like I have control over my treatment.read more
Dave Johnston
13:51 17 Sep 19
I have been seeing mark now for around 6 weeks with hip, back and neck stiffness. I have seen physios, osteopaths on/off for the last 20 years and my issues always reappear.
Mark performed a very thorough initial consultation to establish the root causes of my problems and identified a few issues that were totally unknown to me and that previous professionals never picked up.
6 weeks in and i am feeling great, my hips, back and neck are as free/loose as i can remember them being.
Mark is great to work with and all the staff are really welcoming and polite.read more
Mohamme Faiyazuddin
13:10 17 Sep 19
I had a severe back pain and I was struggling to even bend and tie my shoe laces whether I was sitting or standing. My GP recommend this clinic. I was taken care by Mark who is a very good chiropractor. I could see a difference from the first visit it self. In a few weeks time I am up and running. Literally running as I love playing Cricket. I have been batting, bowling and running around the ground. Mark is very confident and experienced professional. I would never hesitate recommending this clinic any one. Thanks a lot.read more
S Cox
21:47 16 Sep 19
I came here to see Laetitia after suffering pain following my pregnancy. I had been seeing a NHS a physio for 6 months and was making no progress I found the details for Laetitia on the Pelvic Partnership website so booked for a consult. I have not looked back since.
I have only been seeing her for just over 2 months and am nearly back to myself and am able to live my life nearly pain free thanks to her treatment.
Everyone at the clinic are so lovely and it’s really easy to book appointments etc. Would highly recommend.read more
Gabby sandhu
17:33 12 Sep 19
Mark is an incredible Chiropractor, the practice overall is very welcoming and friendly.
Andrew Hill
13:30 20 Jul 19
Won't use anyone else, been coming here for a while now and they have really helped with my bad back.
Mary Brodsky
12:52 15 May 19
Lovely location, lovely staff and Sarah has made my back a million times better! Can't recommend this place enough.
Mary-Kate Reynolds
14:58 25 Apr 19
The best decision I ever made!! Headingley Chiropractic Clinic genuinely changed my life.
I experienced over 12 months of suffering from chronic shoulder and neck pain that caused nerve and shooting pains down my arm, it made me unable to work or generally get out of bed, at its worst I was collapsing from the pain. I was passed from pillar to post of consultants, specialists and physios, none of which took any ownership or desire to get to the bottom of it, openly telling me throughout my time that they had no idea what my pain was and were just going to operate and find out. I'd had so many tests that my GP was starting to think I was undiagnosable he even tried to put me off of coming to a chiropractor. I'd said from the outset that my jaw, neck and shoulder were all linked and affecting each other but nobody paid any attention until I came to Mark.
He was the first medical professional I saw in over a year of appointments and tests that genuinely listened and it was a breath of fresh air. I'd spent well over a year in chronic pain and within 6 weeks of seeing Mark I'd had a total turn around, 3 months in and I am no longer having to take the 15 painkillers a day, I am getting back to work, fitness and generally being able to live my life again.
If I had listened to my GPs advice, I'd still be off work, in bed most days in agony and would just be having to live life with my pain. At 25 years old, I didn't find that acceptable and thanks to Mark things are massively on the up. I can't express enough how much this has helped me, I felt so helpless before and if you're having a similar experience with pain that isn't being helped/diagnosed because its cause is not obvious, then don't lose hope because there are other ways of being fixed outside of your GP / NHS pathway.
The team at the practice are so lovely too! I can't thank them enough and will continue to see Mark to maintain my progress.read more
umy star
20:29 13 Apr 19
Hi just been in to see Laetitia was very professional helpful and really open about everything, booked another few appointments with her ,,very clean and professional clinic and the reception lady was very helpfull aswell ,,
Overall great experienceread more
Richard Hartley
13:06 06 Mar 19
I'd had back, neck and hip problems for over a year. After 6-7 sessions almost all the pain had gone. I had forgotten what being pain free was like. Thanks Mark.read more
Andrew Paul
14:43 28 Feb 19
I have suffered with back, neck and shoulder pain for many years. Eventually the pain got too much so I called in to the clinic for an assessment.
I was referred to Sarah who went on to highlight all the issues and recommended a course of treatment.
The treatment I have received from Sarah and all the staff since my first visit has been fantastic.
The results have been amazing and the freedom of movement I now enjoy is unbelievable.
Thank you to Sarah and all the team.read more
Rachel Hardy
13:17 24 Feb 19
After 6 years of back problems and pains I thought it would be impossible to relieve the pain, but within my first appointment I had already felt a difference. I'm 7 appointments in now and my back has improved so much. I'm already on the stage of carrying out exercises recommended by Mark. I couldn't be happier with the treatment! Mark is especially helpful and makes sure you understand fully what he is doing and why. I can't wait to see the improvements that I'm sure will continue to present!read more
Mohamed Dalghous
23:11 10 Feb 19
On behalf of my mum:
Having read some of the great google reviews, I decided to try this place out. I came for a free assessment and then decided to go ahead with treatment so I have been seeing Mark for a few weeks now after suffering for 23 years of back pain and sciatica after pregnancy with twins. Can not recommend Mark and the staff enough. If I could give more than 5 stars I would.read more
Mourya Varma
20:27 24 Jan 19
Having previously had chiropractic treatment a long time ago, I know how important it is to find a good chiropractor who you are going to trust with your body and schedule regular treatment with.
The treatment costs are reasonable and considering this practice is one of the best in Leeds and the work they do, the expertise and knowledge they have I believe its worth every penny.
I have been at the gym for over a year, I have moved house and really pushed my body to the limit and this has caused me tremendous pain in my hip flexor and lower back along with stress!
I made my initial appointment and got to the practice. The reception team were very friendly and professional. Mark has been amazing so far and I continue regular ongoing treatment.
I can not recommend this practice enough, I've told all my friends and family about it.read more
Laura Dosil
09:27 23 Nov 18
I always go there when I'm miserable and in pain and I leave not only with less pain, but also more relaxed. Letitia always explains everything I need to do at home to get better, and it's always the best advice.read more
Silvia Tarchi
07:34 07 Nov 18
I have been struggling for many years with back pain and hip pain. Tried may different approaches with zero results. My GP told me to try a Chiropractor and i remember a few years back it had helped me. So i found Headingley Chiropractic Clinic and have been going now for a couple of months, what a change!! I have almost no pain, i walk so much better and managed to get myself back to the gym. I have more energy and am so happy that my sciatic pain is almost gone! Mark has been absolutely wonderful for the very beginning and i find going there very relaxing and always walk out feeling great. The team at the reception is also very welcoming and they remember you by name. I would definitely recommend this practise! They are also very accommodating with the times so that the sessions don t take time away from work.read more
Francesca de Bernart
21:24 25 Oct 18
In just a few sessions Mark fixed me and I am back to a free from pain and happy life again. I couldn’t ask for more, I didn’t expect it to work so well and so fast, after months of severe pain. I would definitely recommend it to everybody and will always be grateful to my friend Marianthi who suggested it to me in the first place. Mark is extremely professional and luckily really able to help, where anyone else and everything else (gp, drugs ...) failed. Highly recommended +++read more
Steve Larkin
18:36 23 Oct 18
I was struggling for several months with pain passing down my left arm from the shoulder, along with pins and needles and poor mobility. Six short sessions with Mark over four weeks had me cured.read more
Ana Filipa Neto
09:10 11 Oct 18
I’ve had sciatica problems before that caused severe back spasms and inability to walk. I’ve seen other chiropractors for this and got worse and therefore scared to ever go again.
When I was about 3 months pregnant this happened and I literally couldn’t move! The pain was enormous and because I still had 6 months to go, I thought I really needed to find help!
I went on Google and found this clinic that had good reviews for normal Chiro treatments but had someone specialised in pregnancy care.
I rang the clinic to make sure she had other experience as I was so traumatised! The receptionist was a dear and said not to worry, she had plenty of pregnant ladies coming in and all very happy with the treatment!
It was the best decision I’ve ever made! Dr Laetitia was very understanding, supportive and a great professional overall.
I couldn’t walk and after the first session I was able to walk home, about an hour walk, I couldn’t believe it!
I’m very grateful for all her care, I recommend her treatment all the time!
Even my midwife was surprised and started recommending it to other ladies!
Very happy! I’m looking forward to keep up with the treatments in due course!read more
darren dobson
17:00 04 Oct 18
Mark is brilliant. He has fixed me so many times when my GP couldn't! The best chiropractor in Leeds.
Pawel Koziorowski
12:33 28 Sep 18
I had excruciating pain in my back and i turned to Headingley Chiropractic Clinic which helped me 6 years ago as well. Chiropractor Mark took good care of me which included effective treatment and exercises to prevent the problems in the future and to strengthen my core muscles. I would recommend this clinic to anybody as they are very professional and nice to work with. 5 stars without a doubtread more
yosef Habib Hafiz
20:26 21 Aug 18
Professional place, clean, friendly and reasonably priced.
I’ve had costochondritis for over 4 years now & pain in the sciatic nerve.
Mark does a really good job. I was amazed at how he got rid of that nasty sciatic pain with his skilful acupuncture session.
As for my complicated costochondritis issue. The flare has died down significantly after a couple of sessions. I’m now able to have many good night’s of sleep. Along with his excellent work and the NHS checkups combined, I hope to treat it once and for all.
Verdict: Would recommend.read more
Keith Gordon
13:20 11 Jul 18
Second review from me, but Google asked. In my particular case, I think 10 visits to a physiotherapist is equivalent to just one here with Sarah. Again, a brilliant session - feel and move so much better, thank you.read more
Helen Frazer
22:50 12 May 18
Great treatment provided and explanation for what/why need - great approach to help patients understand root cause and self help to prevent re-occurrence. ?read more
Keith Gordon
06:33 25 Feb 18
The best chiropractor I have visited in 25 years- Sarah is excellent and very professional. Throughly recommended over all others I have visited.
Marian Gheorghe
21:40 08 Feb 18
I came to see Mark Butterworth agonising with back pain, including lower back and the neck. Both, the entire spine and muscles around the neck were stiff and painful, making me unable to sit, stand and sleep more than a couple of hours over night. Mark assessed me very thoroughly and professionally, prescribing at the end a treatment over several weeks. After two weeks, my situation significantly improved: the muscles becoming more relaxed, spine more flexible and my entire body more able to move freely, without pain. The progress is obvious.
Mark is not only very knowledgeable and professional, but also methodic in what is doing, caring about any detail and providing advice when requested.
I would recommend Mark and his colleagues without any hesitation as one of the best clinics of this type I have ever encountered.read more
Mohammed Zabair
20:05 18 Jan 18
Very thorough and very informative, Highly professional yet relaxed atmosphere. Tea and coffee offered on several occasions, just made the whole experience very pleasant. Mr Butterworth is very knowledgeable and passionate about his craft. Highly recommended A+++read more
Iram Ali
23:24 10 Nov 17
After months of being in pain, I went to see Mark at the Headingley Chiropractic Clinic. I can honestly say it has made a huge difference. I may have a while before I'm 100% but I definitely feel like I have some normality back in my life. Oh and Stephanie is a godsend with her cups of coffee :)read more
thornton andrew
09:27 13 Sep 17
I retired from work in 2012 and had terrible back problems from not sitting correctly at computers. Mark gradually manipulated the muscles back into something like normality and I now go once a month to keep the muscles freed up and have a completely pain free existence. I have also had a long standing knee problem going back to a leg break in 1987. Mark actually managed to manipulate the joint back into line and since then i have had no problems with either my knee or hip, thus avoiding potential surgery.
I cannot speak highly enough of the entire practice, all the staff are charming and couldn't be more helpful. Worth every penny for a pain free life.
Many thanks to all the staff.read more
Steph C
22:12 20 Jun 17
I would highly recommend this clinic! I've had issues with pain in my lower back on and off for many years and recently this led to pain down my left leg. Mark relieved the pain after only 5 visits and gave me exercises to strengthen my core muscles; the pain hasn't returned. I would recommend this friendly clinic to family and friends without hesitation! read more
