Blog · Steve Hall · 19 March 2025
Osteopathy
Red flags in back pain
The list Steve Hall will not skip — and why it is not designed to frighten you.
Symptoms and what they can mean
Most back pain is mechanical. Red flags are uncommon and important: unexplained weight loss, history of cancer, fever, intravenous drug use, widespread neurological loss, saddle numbness, bladder or bowel change.
What we can do in clinic
If they are present I stop the osteopathy plan and send you to the right place. That is professional, not dramatic.
Red flags and when to see your GP
If you have those symptoms now, do not finish this article — use NHS 111 or 999 as appropriate.
This article is general information for people considering care at Health at Hart in Hartley Wintney. It is not a diagnosis, a prescription, or a promise of outcome. If you have sudden, severe or unexplained symptoms — including chest pain, unexplained weight loss, night pain, bowel or bladder changes, or a new neurological problem — seek urgent medical advice (NHS 111 or 999). UK osteopaths are regulated by the General Osteopathic Council. Counsellors named here are BACP-registered where stated. Always check with your GP or insurer if you are unsure whether a treatment is appropriate for you.
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