Spine and Nerve Pain Care

Back Pain, Neck Pain and Sciatica Clinic on the Costa del Sol

Assessment and treatment for lower back pain, neck pain, sciatica and nerve-related symptoms at Costa Health in Marbella and Riviera del Sol.

Author: Costa Health clinical content team. Clinical reviewer: Sarah Monaghan, Chiropractor. Last clinically reviewed: 25 April 2026. Next review due: 25 April 2027.

2

clinic locations

4

hands-on disciplines

112

for emergency symptoms in Spain

Costa Health clinician assessing a patient's back and spine

Good care starts with assessment

We look for the safest next step, not a one-size-fits-all treatment plan.

Assessment

A safer way to decide what you need

The important question is not whether pain is muscular, joint-related or disc-related on day one. The important question is what is safe, what is likely, and what should happen next.

We check the full story

Your clinician asks about the pain pattern, medical history, previous scans, medication, lifestyle, work, sport and what has changed recently.

We screen for red flags

Most back and neck pain is not dangerous, but some symptoms need urgent medical care or GP review. We do not treat first and ask questions later.

We examine movement and nerves

Assessment may include spinal movement, strength, reflexes, sensation, joint and muscle testing, and functional movements that matter to your daily life.

We build a practical plan

Treatment may include hands-on care, exercise, education, pacing, strength work, referral for imaging, or GP or specialist input when needed.

Red Flags

When not to wait for a routine appointment

This page is not a substitute for urgent medical care. NHS back pain and NHS sciatica guidance both flag symptoms that may need hospital-level assessment.

If you are in Spain and these symptoms are present, call 112 or seek urgent medical care.

  • New bladder or bowel changes, including difficulty peeing or loss of control
  • Numbness around the genitals, anus or saddle area
  • Severe or worsening weakness, numbness or tingling in both legs
  • Back pain with fever, feeling very unwell, or unexplained weight loss
  • Severe pain that starts suddenly, gets worse quickly, or follows a serious accident
  • Back pain with chest pain or symptoms that feel like an emergency

Questions

Back pain, neck pain and sciatica FAQs

Short answers to the decisions patients usually need to make before booking.

Which clinician should I book for back pain, neck pain or sciatic pain?

If you are unsure, book this assessment route or contact the team. Chiropractic is often a good starting point for spinal pain, physiotherapy may be best when rehabilitation or exercise progression is central, and osteopathy can help when whole-body movement patterns are involved. If another clinician is more suitable, we will redirect you internally.

Do I need an MRI or X-ray before booking?

Usually, no. NICE guideline NG59 advises against routine imaging for low back pain or sciatica in non-specialist settings. Imaging is most useful when the result is likely to change management, or when serious pathology is suspected. If your assessment suggests imaging or medical review is needed, we will explain why.

Can sciatica improve without surgery?

Many cases of sciatica improve over weeks to months, but some last longer or need specialist care. NHS sciatica guidance lists exercise, physiotherapy, pain management and, in selected cases, injections or surgery. Your clinician will check for signs that need urgent or specialist review.

Is it safe to keep moving with back pain?

For many people, gentle movement and normal activity are helpful. NHS back pain guidance advises staying active and avoiding long periods in bed. The right level depends on your symptoms, medical history and whether pain is worsening, spreading or linked with red flags.

What are back pain red flags?

Seek urgent medical care if back pain is linked with new bladder or bowel changes, numbness around the genitals or anus, severe or worsening weakness or numbness in both legs, chest pain, serious trauma, fever, feeling very unwell, or severe pain that is rapidly worsening.

What happens in the first appointment?

Your clinician will listen, screen for risk factors, examine movement and neurological signs where appropriate, explain what they think is happening, and agree a plan. Treatment may begin in the first session when it is appropriate and safe.

Can you help golfers, desk workers and active people?

Yes. The team regularly sees golfers, desk workers, travellers, gym users and people who simply want to move without fear. The goal is not only short-term symptom relief, but helping you understand how to manage load, movement and recurrence risk.

Clinical references

This page references NICE guideline NG59, NHS back pain and NHS sciatica guidance. Guidance changes over time, and individual advice should always come from a clinician who has reviewed your current symptoms and medical history.

Book a Back Pain, Neck Pain or Sciatica Assessment

Start with a clear clinical assessment, a plain-English explanation and a practical plan for the safest next step.

Available at Riviera del Sol and The Clubhouse Marbella