Question 1

What therapies does Virginia offer?

Accepted Answer

Virginia uses ASMI (Advanced Spinal Mobilisation Instrument) as the primary therapy, supported by Theraflex when appropriate. All are non-invasive approaches focused on gentle spinal mobilisation rather than forceful manipulation.

Question 2

What is spinal mobilisation?

Accepted Answer

Spinal mobilisation is a gentle, controlled approach to improving spinal movement and reducing pain. Unlike chiropractic manipulation which uses quick thrusts, mobilisation uses slower, repetitive movements to gradually restore flexibility and reduce muscle tension.

Question 3

What types of back problems can be helped?

Accepted Answer

These therapies address mechanical issues of the spine — problems involving joints, muscles, and movement patterns that cause pain and restricted motion. This includes chronic back pain, disc-related discomfort, muscle spasms, postural issues, and scoliosis.

Question 4

How soon after an injury can I book?

Accepted Answer

Serious injuries should always be assessed by a doctor first. Once cleared, treatment may be possible after a few weeks depending on your situation. We'll discuss your history during the free consultation and advise if you need medical clearance.

Question 5

What if my pain has been going on for years?

Accepted Answer

The duration of your problem doesn't necessarily limit what can be achieved. Many people with long-standing back issues have found relief. Your treatment plan will be tailored to your specific history, symptoms, and goals.

Question 6

Is there an age limit?

Accepted Answer

Age is not usually a limiting factor. Virginia works with adults of all ages. Suitability is always assessed individually based on your overall health and specific needs.

Question 7

Can I be treated if I have osteoporosis?

Accepted Answer

It may be possible depending on severity. This is something we screen carefully during your consultation. You may need medical guidance or clearance from your doctor before starting.

Question 8

I've tried physiotherapy, chiropractic, and acupuncture — can ASMI still help?

Accepted Answer

Yes, and this is one of the most common situations Virginia encounters. Many of her clients come having already tried physiotherapy, chiropractic treatment, acupuncture, steroid injections, or combinations of all of these — with little lasting relief. ASMI works differently from all of them. Rather than managing symptoms or strengthening muscles around the problem, it focuses directly on how your vertebrae are moving — targeting the mechanical restrictions that are often the underlying cause other approaches don't directly address. The free 15-minute consultation is a good opportunity to talk through what you've tried and whether ASMI is likely to make a real difference for you.

Question 9

I've been told there's nothing more that can be done for my back. Is that really true?

Accepted Answer

It's a phrase Virginia hears regularly from new clients, and it usually isn't the full picture. 'Nothing more can be done' typically means 'nothing more within standard NHS or conventional clinical pathways' — not that no options exist at all. ASMI is a specialist therapy that sits outside those pathways. It won't help every condition, but for mechanical back problems — the most common kind — it's worth a free 15-minute conversation to find out whether it's a realistic option for you.

Question 10

What makes ASMI different from treatments I've already tried?

Accepted Answer

Physiotherapy typically focuses on exercises, stretching, and muscle strengthening. Chiropractic uses high-velocity 'adjustment' thrusts. Acupuncture works through the nervous system to manage pain signals. ASMI is different: it uses a specialised instrument to directly mobilise individual vertebrae, targeting restrictions in spinal movement that are difficult to reach through exercises or manual techniques alone. For people whose pain stems from how the spine is moving — rather than muscle weakness or nerve sensitivity — this distinction can matter a great deal.

Question 11

Is treatment painful?

Accepted Answer

Most people find treatment comfortable, though the first session may cause some mild discomfort, especially if you're already in pain. Any soreness typically settles within a day or two. Sessions become more comfortable as your body responds to treatment.

Question 12

What happens during a session?

Accepted Answer

You'll lie comfortably on a treatment table while Virginia uses specialised equipment to gently mobilise your spine. Sessions typically last 30-60 minutes. You remain fully clothed (loose, comfortable clothing is best).

Question 13

How many sessions will I need?

Accepted Answer

Most people see meaningful improvement within 3-5 sessions, though this varies depending on your condition, how long you've had it, and your overall health. More complex cases like scoliosis may require a longer course of treatment.

Question 14

Do people book maintenance sessions?

Accepted Answer

Many people choose periodic maintenance sessions, especially if their work or lifestyle is physically demanding, or if they're managing ongoing conditions. This helps maintain the benefits achieved during initial treatment.

Question 15

Is it safe if I've had spinal surgery?

Accepted Answer

It may be possible depending on the type of surgery and how long ago it was. This would be assessed case-by-case, and you'll likely need clearance from your surgeon or doctor before starting.

Question 16

Is this like chiropractic treatment?

Accepted Answer

No. Virginia's approach uses gentle mobilisation rather than the high-velocity adjustments typical of chiropractic treatment. There's no 'cracking' or sudden movements — just controlled, gradual techniques.

Question 17

Is this medical advice?

Accepted Answer

No. This site is for information only. If you have severe symptoms, neurological signs, or any medical concerns, we'll advise you to consult an appropriate healthcare professional.

Frequently asked questions

BasicsWhat therapies does Virginia offer?01

BasicsWhat is spinal mobilisation?02

BasicsWhat types of back problems can be helped?03

SuitabilityHow soon after an injury can I book?04

SuitabilityWhat if my pain has been going on for years?05

SuitabilityIs there an age limit?06

SuitabilityCan I be treated if I have osteoporosis?07

Other treatmentsI've tried physiotherapy, chiropractic, and acupuncture — can ASMI still help?08

Other treatmentsI've been told there's nothing more that can be done for my back. Is that really true?09

Other treatmentsWhat makes ASMI different from treatments I've already tried?10

SessionsIs treatment painful?11

SessionsWhat happens during a session?12

SessionsHow many sessions will I need?13

SessionsDo people book maintenance sessions?14

SafetyIs it safe if I've had spinal surgery?15

SafetyIs this like chiropractic treatment?16

SafetyIs this medical advice?17