Back Pain Treatment in Kyoto
If you’re visiting Kyoto or living here and dealing with back pain — whether it’s a dull ache, a sharp catch when you move, or something that’s been hanging around for months — you’re in the right place.
At Kyoto Osteopathy Center OQ, we offer English-speaking osteopathic treatment for back pain. No need for a Japanese interpreter. Just book online and come in.
Is there an English-speaking osteopath for back pain in Kyoto?
Yes. Yusuke Sakata BSc(Ost) conducts sessions fully in English. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Osteopathy from Swansea University, Wales, and is the only Asian practitioner to have completed EVOST — a five-year postgraduate course in evolutionary medicine and osteopathy through morphologicum in Belgium.
His clinic is on the first floor of our building in central Kyoto, easily accessible from Kyoto Station.
What kind of back pain do we treat?
We see a wide range of people. Some have had scans and been told “nothing’s wrong.” Others have a diagnosis but haven’t found lasting relief. A few are visiting Kyoto when a familiar problem flares up.
Common presentations we treat:
- Lower back pain and lumbar stiffness
- Sciatica and radiating pain into the leg
- Disc-related pain (herniation, protrusion)
- Spinal stenosis symptoms
- Postural strain from desk work or long travel
- Back pain during pregnancy
- Pain that keeps coming back despite treatment elsewhere
How does osteopathy approach back pain differently?
Most back pain treatment focuses on the painful area. Osteopathy starts there too — but then asks why that area is under strain.
The spine doesn’t operate in isolation. How your hips move, how your ribs expand when you breathe, whether there’s tension through your diaphragm or pelvis — all of these influence how load is distributed through your back.
At OQ, we work with the body as a whole. That means hands-on assessment from your feet to your neck, not just the spot that hurts. Treatment may involve soft tissue work, joint mobilisation, and articular techniques. The approach is precise rather than forceful — osteopathy is a clinical assessment and treatment process, not a relaxation or wellness service.
The aim isn’t just to reduce your pain during the session. It’s to understand why the pattern keeps recurring and to start changing it.
Who will I see?
Yusuke Sakata BSc(Ost) — Ground Floor
Full English sessions available. Specialises in whole-body assessment, cranial osteopathy, and complex or recurring conditions. Also works with pregnant women, infants, and systemic health issues.
→ First visit 60 min ¥14,300 / Follow-up 40 min ¥11,000
Sota Omura PT, MSc — Second Floor
Basic English communication available (uses translation tools when needed). Physical therapist with additional osteopathic training. Specialises in lower back pain, sciatica, hip and knee issues, and post-stroke rehabilitation. Also offers gait analysis and custom insoles.
→ First visit 60 min ¥11,000 / Follow-up 40 min ¥8,800
What to expect at your first visit
The first session is 60 minutes.
We’ll spend time listening — what happened, when it started, what makes it better or worse, what you’ve already tried. Then a physical assessment, followed by hands-on treatment.
Most people notice some change within the first session, though we’re honest that lasting results usually take more than one visit. At the end, we’ll give you a clear picture of what we found and what we’d recommend.
You don’t need a referral. Just book online below.
Frequently asked questions
Can I see you even if I’m only in Kyoto for a few days?
Yes, many of our patients are travellers. A single session won’t resolve a long-standing problem, but it can meaningfully reduce your pain and help you get through the rest of your trip. Just mention it when you book and we’ll make the most of the time.
Is osteopathy the same as chiropractic or massage?
No. Osteopathy is a distinct clinical discipline. We don’t use high-velocity spinal manipulation (“cracking”), and sessions are not relaxation massage. The focus is diagnostic — understanding why a problem exists — followed by hands-on treatment aimed at restoring function.
Do I need to bring anything?
Nothing special. Wear comfortable clothing if possible. We may ask you to remove shoes or an outer layer for the assessment.
Is osteopathy covered by Japanese health insurance?
No. Osteopathy in Japan is private (self-pay). We don’t accept Japanese public health insurance. Some travel insurance policies cover manual therapy — it’s worth checking yours.
Book your appointment online →
No need to call. No Japanese required. Book online, come to the clinic.
→ Back to English top page
→ About Yusuke Sakata
→ Fees & access