Frequently asked questions
Answers to common questions about Spinemathema: what it is, how the guides are written and checked, and how to get help with your own symptoms.
Is Spinemathema medical advice?
No. Spinemathema is general health information to help you understand spinal conditions, tests and treatments. It cannot diagnose you or replace a consultation with a doctor who knows your history and has examined you. Please speak to your GP, physiotherapist or spinal team about your own situation.
Who writes the guides?
Spinemathema guides are evidence based. They are built on the existing medical literature and on national guidelines, such as those from NICE, the NHS and the British Association of Spine Surgeons. Every guide lists its references, so you can check the sources for yourself.
How are the references chosen and checked?
Guides draw on UK guidance (NICE, the NHS and the British Association of Spine Surgeons), systematic reviews and major clinical trials. Every research paper we cite is checked against its PubMed record, and every number is traced back to the paper or guideline it came from. When good sources disagree, we give the range and cite each source rather than picking one figure.
Why is the podcast narrated by an AI voice?
Podcast episodes and guide audio are narrated in Mr Sadek’s voice using AI voice technology, from scripts he has reviewed. This lets us offer an audio version of every guide for people who prefer to listen. Each recording is labelled so you always know how it was made.
Can I ask Mr Sadek about my own symptoms through this website?
No. Mr Sadek cannot give individual medical advice through Spinemathema. For new or worsening symptoms, speak to your GP or call NHS 111. Call 999 or go to A&E straight away if you have back pain with numbness around your bottom or genitals, new problems controlling your bladder or bowels, or weakness in your legs.
How do I book an appointment with Mr Sadek?
Spinemathema does not take bookings. Details of Mr Sadek’s clinics are on his practice website, ahmedsadek.co.uk. NHS patients are usually referred by their GP.
Can I share a guide with my GP or physiotherapist?
Yes, please do. Every guide has its own web address and a list of references, so you can send the link or print the page to take to an appointment.
How up to date is the information?
Each guide shows when it was last reviewed. Guides are updated when important new research or national guidance is published, and a fortnightly research roundup explains new studies as they come out.
Is Spinemathema free?
Yes. All guides, videos and podcasts are free to use, and the website carries no advertising.
This website is general information and is not a substitute for advice about your own situation.
