Written by Julian Newhill, Registered Osteopath (M.Ost, B.A.(Hons), Dip S.M. Julian has 14 years of clinical experience specialising in spinal musculoskeletal conditions. Read his full profile. 

If you’ve ever woken up with a "dodgy back" or felt that sharp twinge after a day spent gardening in Horley, you know how quickly back pain can take over your life. When the discomfort doesn't settle, the next question is almost always: "Should I see an osteopath or a chiropractor?"
It’s a common dilemma. Both professions are experts in musculoskeletal health, both are regulated by law in the UK, and both are highly effective at treating back pain. However, the way we approach your recovery can be quite different.

As your local osteopath in Surrey, I want to help you understand these differences so you can make the best choice for your health and get back to your daily routine safely.

​While there is a lot of overlap, this table highlights the primary differences in how we typically work:

When you visit an osteopath for back pain, we don't just look at where it hurts. We look at why it hurts.
For instance, if you have lower back pain, it might actually be caused by a stiff hip or an old ankle injury that has changed the way you walk. Our philosophy is that the body is an interconnected system. We use a variety of manual techniques—including gentle stretching, rhythmic joint movements, and soft tissue massage—to improve circulation and restore balance to the entire musculoskeletal framework.

In our clinic here in Horley, we also place a heavy emphasis on practical, advice. Whether it's adjusting your office chair setup or suggesting specific exercises to do while waiting for the train at Horley station, we want to empower you to stay pain-free long after you leave the treatment room.
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Chiropractors generally focus more specifically on the integrity of the spine. Their core belief is that if the spinal column is perfectly aligned, the nervous system can function at its peak, allowing the body to heal itself.

You’ll often find that a chiropractic treatment is very "hands-on" with the spine itself. They use specific, high-speed adjustments (which often produce that familiar "popping" sound) to improve the range of motion in individual spinal joints. If your pain feels very "structural" or "joint-locked," many patients find this direct approach very satisfying.

The honest answer? Both.

The NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence) guidelines in the UK recommend manual therapy—which includes both osteopathy and chiropractic—as an effective treatment for persistent lower back pain.

The "best" choice often comes down to your personal preference and the specific nature of your pain:

• Choose an Osteopath if: You prefer a holistic approach that includes muscle work, stretching, and a focus on how your whole body moves together.
• Choose a Chiropractor if: You prefer a treatment that focuses specifically on spinal alignment and nervous system function through quick adjustments.

 A Note on Safety and ProfessionalismIn the UK, your safety is paramount.

• Osteopaths are regulated by the General Osteopathic Council (GOsC).
• Chiropractors are regulated by the General Chiropractic Council (GCC).
  
  

Both must complete four to five years of clinical training and adhere to strict professional standards. As an Allied Health Professional (AHP), I am trained to screen for "red flags"—serious underlying conditions that might require a referral to your GP or a specialist. Whether you see us or a chiropractor, you are in safe, professional hands.
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Living with back pain shouldn't be your "new normal". Whether you're a commuter dealing with "tech neck" or a busy parent lifting toddlers, we are here to support our Surrey community.
If you're still unsure which path is right for you, why not book a consultation? We can sit down, discuss your history, and perform a clinical assessment to see if osteopathy is the right fit for your recovery journey.

Ready to move better? Contact our Horley clinic today to book your initial assessment.

About the Author
**Julian Newhill**, Practice Owner
Masters of Osteopathy, B.A. Hons, Diploma Sports Massage

Julian Newhill is a highly experienced osteopath with 14 years experience, he has 2 clinics in Horley and also works in London. He specialises in treating back pain, neck pain, headaches, and migraines, offering effective relief through osteopathy, sports massage therapy, acupuncture, and ultrasound therapy.
With a Master's degree in Osteopathy from the British School of Osteopathy and registration with the General Osteopathic Council (GOC) and Institute of Osteopathy (IO), Julian's expertise is backed by extensive training and experience. He previously worked at the British School of Osteopathy and a private orthopaedic hospital, further solidifying his knowledge in treating a wide range of conditions. Julian's patient-centred approach ensures personalised care, addressing each individual's unique needs. He's passionate about helping people achieve optimal health and well-being, utilising a combination of evidence-based techniques.

Sports massage therapy aids in injury recovery and enhances performance.
Acupuncture provides natural pain relief, improves circulation, and reduces stress.
Ultrasound therapy promotes healing and reduces pain, particularly for muscle and ligament injuries.

If you're looking for a dedicated and skilled practitioner in Horley, Julian Newhill is here to help you achieve your health goals. Contact him today to schedule an appointment and experience the benefits of his comprehensive approach to healthcare.

**Specialising in:** Manual therapy, acupuncture, osteoarthritis, sports injuries, work related injuries, posture correction and advice.

Written by Julian Newhill, Registered Osteopath (M.Ost, B.A.(Hons), Dip S.M. Julian has 14 years of clinical experience specialising in spinal musculoskeletal conditions. Read his full profile. 

Lower back pain is one of the most frequent reasons neighbours visit our clinic here in Horley. For many, what starts as a dull ache can progress into sciatica—a sharp, radiating pain that travels from the lower back into the buttock, leg, or foot due to irritation of the sciatic nerve.

At Newhill Osteopathy, we often see patients who wish they had addressed their discomfort sooner. The encouraging news? Many episodes of lower back pain are preventable. By adopting a proactive approach to spinal health, you can keep yourself moving freely through Gatwick Woods or on your daily commute.
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Why Lower Back Pain and Sciatica Are So Common.
Modern life in Surrey often involves long commutes or hours hunched over desks, which places significant strain on the spine. Sciatica occurs when the nerve becomes compressed—often due to disc issues, joint restriction, or muscle tension.
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Common symptoms to watch for include:

• Pain radiating down one leg.
• Pins and needles, tingling, or numbness in the feet.
• Muscle weakness in the lower limbs.
• Increased discomfort when sitting or bending.

Everyday activities—desk work, driving the M23, or lifting heavy shopping—create cumulative stress. While many seek an osteopath only when in crisis, regular "MOT" check-ups can identify minor dysfunctions before they become painful flare-ups.

Osteopathic treatment focuses on:

• Improving joint mobility to reduce stiffness.
• Balancing muscle tension to take the pressure off spinal discs.
• Enhancing circulation to support the body’s natural healing.

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• Eye-Level Screens: Avoid "tech neck" by ensuring your monitor is level with your gaze.
• Lumbar Support: Use a chair that maintains the natural curve of your lower back.
• The "20-Minute" Rule: Stand up and stretch every 20 minutes to prevent spinal "creep" (where ligaments overstretch due to prolonged sitting).
• Safe Lifting: Always bend at the hips and knees, keeping the load close to your chest. Never twist while lifting.

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Movement is medicine for the spine. Strengthening your "core" isn’t just about sit-ups; it’s about the deep stabilising muscles that protect your vertebrae.

• Low-Impact Activity: Walking, swimming, and Pilates are excellent for spinal health.
• Glute Strength: Strong gluteal muscles take the workload off your lower back during daily tasks.

The "Bio-Psycho-Social" model of pain shows us that stress actually heightens pain sensitivity. High stress levels can lead to physical guarding and muscle tension in the lumbar region. Furthermore, maintaining a healthy weight reduces the mechanical load on your spinal discs, significantly lowering the risk of wear and tear.
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Frequently Asked Questions:
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When should I see an osteopath for back pain? 
If your pain lasts more than a few days, interferes with sleep, or involves leg pain (sciatica), it is wise to book an assessment.

Can sciatica go away on its own? 
While some mild nerve irritation resolves with rest and gentle movement, persistent sciatica often requires professional intervention to address the underlying mechanical cause.

Is walking good for sciatica? 
Usually, yes. Short, frequent walks on flat ground help maintain circulation and mobility without over-straining the nerve.

​Professional Spinal Care in Horley, Surrey
​At Newhill Osteopathy (RH6), we take a patient-centred, evidence-informed approach. We don’t just treat the symptoms; we look at the whole person to find the root cause of your discomfort.
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About the Author
**Julian Newhill**, Practice Owner
Masters of Osteopathy, B.A. Hons, Diploma Sports Massage

Julian Newhill is a highly experienced osteopath with clinics in Horley and London. He specialises in treating back pain, neck pain, headaches, and migraines, offering effective relief through osteopathy, sports massage therapy, acupuncture, and ultrasound therapy.
With a Master's degree in Osteopathy from the British School of Osteopathy and registration with the General Osteopathic Council (GOC) and Institute of Osteopathy (IO), Julian's expertise is backed by extensive training and experience. He previously worked at the British School of Osteopathy and a private orthopaedic hospital, further solidifying his knowledge in treating a wide range of conditions. Julian's patient-centred approach ensures personalised care, addressing each individual's unique needs. He's passionate about helping people achieve optimal health and well-being, utilising a combination of evidence-based techniques.
Sports massage therapy aids in injury recovery and enhances performance.
Acupuncture provides natural pain relief, improves circulation, and reduces stress.
Ultrasound therapy promotes healing and reduces pain, particularly for muscle and ligament injuries.

**Specialising in:** Manual therapy, acupuncture, osteoarthritis, sports injuries, work related injuries, posture correction and advice.