How it works

Chiropractic is a highly regulated primary healthcare profession for the diagnosis, treatment, management and prevention of the Muscular Skeletal System (MSK) disorders.

What is a Chiropractor?

Chiropractors have a specific focus and specialist interest in the spine, at Bournemouth Chiropractic I assess and treat the full range of musculoskeletal problems ranging from back pain and neck pain, headaches and migraines through to shoulder and arm pain, hip and pelvic pain and leg, knee and foot pain. Treatment then considers the effect these conditions can have on the nervous system and on your general function. A lower back problem, for example, can refer pain down the leg, which many people know as sciatica.

chiropractic treatment for neck pain and upper back pain in progress at Bournemouth Chiropractic Clinic
Patient testimonial Bournemouth Chiropractic
“Very professional and makes you feel at ease”

“I have been treated several times by Leslie for problems in my shoulders, hips and back. His treatment has enabled me to get back on my feet quickly and return to sports pain free. Highly recommended.”

Steve Middleton

What is chiropractic treatment?

Chiropractic treatment uses a range of techniques, including gentle hands-on manipulation and mobilisation of the spine. Alongside this runs an individualised programme of care that can include ice, heat, soft tissue work, exercise and stretching. UK guidance from the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence supports manual therapy and exercise, delivered together rather than in isolation, as part of managing low back pain, which is very much the approach I take in my practice.

celebrating staying healthy and active with chiropractic care on Bournemouth beach
Chiropractic consultation with a patient at Bournemouth Chiropractic Clinic

What is a chiropractic treatment plan?

Hand in hand with treatment, I offer advice on self-help, therapeutic exercise, posture and seating at home and at work. This all-round care forms the basis of the chiropractic approach. Understanding your own condition is a large part of recovery, so I make sure you leave knowing what is happening and what you can do about it. If you would like to know more about what to expect, my FAQ page and treatment rates page which details costs amd these answer the questions patients ask most, or you can read my latest articles on the blog.

“Leslie gave great advice”

“Leslie spends time listening to your concerns and gives you confidence that you will start to feel better soon. I had poor posture from sitting at a desk and this had caused neck pain – along with dizziness, headaches and nausea. Following treatment the symptoms disappeared and Leslie gave great advice so I could make the necessary changes to my work space which improved my overall wellbeing.”

Sarah Stainer

Patient testimonial Bournemouth Chiropractic
patients waiting for a chiropractic consultation at Bournemouth Chiropractic Clinic
Chiropractic consultation taking place with Leslie Budzynski DC

Chiropractic and your lifestyle

Chiropractic care is about more than treating a single painful spot. When I assess a problem, I take into account how it affects your daily life, your work, your sleep and the activities you want to get back to, because a back or neck complaint rarely stays neatly in one place.

Treatment is tailored to you as an individual rather than following a fixed routine and the practical advice I give on posture, movement and daily habits is aimed at helping you manage the problem yourself and reduce the chance of it returning. My goal is straightforward: to help you move more comfortably and get back to doing the things that matter to you.

FAQ

Here are some of the most commonly asked questions that chiropractors hear most frequently:

Your first visit lasts approximately 45 minutes and covers three things: a detailed consultation about your symptoms and medical history, a physical examination and in most cases your first treatment. I will explain what I find, what I believe is causing your pain and you leave with a plan, not just a diagnosis.

Loose, comfortable clothing is ideal, gym wear or leggings are perfect. I will need to examine your spine and the affected area, so anything that allows easy access to your back, shoulders or hips is helpful. If you forget, do not worry. We have a changing area and gowns available at the clinic.

Chiropractic is a primary healthcare profession, which means you can book directly without a GP referral. Most patients come to me without having seen their GP first. If I find anything during your examination that requires further investigation or a second opinion, I will refer you on and write to your GP directly.

Most patients describe the adjustment as a feeling of pressure usually followed by some relief. The clicking or popping sound you sometimes hear is simply gas releasing from the fluid inside the joint, the same mechanism as cracking your knuckles. It is not bones grinding or anything breaking. The majority of my patients tell me treatment is gentler than they expected.

This varies depending on how long you have had the problem, your age and your general health. Acute problems that have come on recently often respond more quickly. Long-standing or complex conditions may need more. I will try and give you a realistic estimate after your first appointment.

Both professions treat musculoskeletal problems and are regulated by law in the UK, but the training and emphasis differ. Chiropractors complete a four or five year internationally accredited degree with a particular focus on spinal diagnosis, manual manipulation and the relationship between the spine and the nervous system. Physiotherapists mainly tend to rely more heavily on exercise rehabilitation. In practice there is overlap and the right choice often comes down to your specific condition and personal preference.

It depends on the type of surgery and how long ago it was performed. I regularly see patients who have had discectomies, spinal fusions and other procedures. Chiropractic can often help particularly with the areas above and below the surgical site, which frequently become overloaded. I will ask for your surgical history at your first appointment and tailor treatment accordingly. If chiropractic is not appropriate for your situation, I will tell you honestly and refer you to the right specialist.

© 2026 Bournemouth Chiropractic Clinic Ltd. Company number 16589293.
Registered Address Suite 9 Pine Court Business Centre, 36 Gervis Road, Bournemouth, United Kingdom, England, BH1 3DH. Website by 3mil