
Anti-inflammatories for Spinal Pain
Discover why anti-inflammatories may not be the best solution for spinal pain. Learn about the importance of a multidisciplinary approach to effectively manage pain.
Hi, I’m Dr. Neil Cuninghame, a Hillcrest Chiropractor specializing in helping you move better, feel better, and live better. Whether you’re struggling with chronic pain, sports injuries, or everyday aches like headaches, back pain, or shoulder discomfort, I’m here to guide you toward lasting relief. With over 16 years of experience, I’ve helped athletes, busy professionals, parents, and many others overcome pain and return to doing what they love. My approach combines evidence-based care, personalized treatment plans, and a deep understanding of how the body works.
I’ve dedicated my career to understanding pain, spending countless hours studying and refining my approach and am more than just The Hillcrest Chiropractor. For instance, in 2020, I earned a Post Graduate Diploma in Interdisciplinary Pain Management from the University of Cape Town. Additionally, I’ve completed advanced training in pain science. This means I don’t just treat symptoms—I focus on finding the root cause of your pain and creating a personalized plan to address it.
Moreover, my expertise isn’t just academic—it’s personal. As an endurance athlete, I’ve experienced the frustration of injuries and setbacks firsthand. Whether you’re dealing with chronic pain, everyday aches, or sports-related injuries, I’m here to guide you every step of the way.
EXCELLENT Based on 21 reviews Craig PrinceTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Dr. Neil Cunninghame performed the most thorough examination that I have ever had in South Africa or in the United States where I am from. He followed up with my personal physician and I can’t thank him enough for all he has done. I would highly recommend him to everyone! Alison McLarenTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Dr Cuninghame is amazing!!! I've struggled with my back for years and he has helped me figure out the pain and get some more permanent relief. He is very much about finding the problem and fixing it and not just short term solutions and return visits. Would recommend 100%! Marc AllenTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I went to Dr Cuninghame for my upper left back/neck area originally. I just woke up one morning and could hardly even turn my head. In 2 sessions, he had me as right as rain. While I was there I just mentioned a left heel issue that was troubling me whilst running, but wasn't preventing me from getting out there, so it wasn't a big deal (runners are idiots). But a few weeks later, I started to feel that my right knee was starting to really hurt due to compensating for the left heel issue. All I did was send Neil a message and he suggested I get some ultrasound scans done on my heel. Within little to no time, he got back to me and said it looked like I had a heel spur. He took it upon himself to get a deep analysis of the issue done by Dr Kevin MacIntyre at the KZN Foot and Ankle Clinic at Busamed Gateway. Neil obtained a number of options for my condition/recovery, one of which was keyhole surgery. As it turned out, this is what I opted for (after getting Neil's okay) and this was for sure the right way to go. The before and after photo's are proof of just how much calcium build up there was and how much "cleaning" needed to be done around the heel and the bottom of the Achilles. The entire experience from start to finish with Neil was a pleasure. Nothing like getting a serious heel issue sorted when you just actually popped in with a temporarily sore neck! You can mess around with massages, physios, bio's etc but if you want an unrushed, well-considered analysis and learned opinion on your problem, you MUST go see Dr Cuninghame! He truly makes you feel comfortable and he makes a massive effort to make sure that you come to a JOINT decision about the way forward and treatment required Anthony Mc MillanTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Very professional! When your in pain, this is the place to go. Marion RossouwTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I have recently been treated by Dr Neil Cuninghame and am VERY impressed, my back is not a problem anymore am so thrilled. I will go back to him again should my back play up again Shaun RubensteinTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Dr Cuninghame has been my Chiro for the last 10 years. Every year running with the boat for Dusi leads to a bunch of little issues that Neil understands and always manages to sort out. Its always reassuring knowing you have the support of a very knowledgeable and caring Chiro. I would absolutely recommend Neil with a 5 star review. Blake LouwrensTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Professional and to the point got me back on my feet with some serious injuries from my sport. Highly recommend Neil Brendon FunnellTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. So I'm not the kind of guy that likes going to a Dr or Dentist or even the Vet to be honest, but having an insanely sore shoulder for 2 weeks eventually got the better of me and I booked (very easily via an online platform) with Dr Neil Cuninghame to have a look at what was going on. I only really chose him because he was situated really conveniently in the new Meyrickton Office Park on Old Main Road in Hillcrest and close to my offices at Funnell Cars. Not having ever been to a physio let alone a chiro in my life, I had no idea what to except pain to the max ... What I found was the opposite, in fact it was amazing, and totally not what I was thinking ~ this GUY is a true professional, an expert and such a great guy over and above all the medical expertise. We ended up chatting for quite a bit and then when my mind was at ease he did a few tests and isolated the problem. What he did after that can only be described by a non medically minded person as witchcraft (😝😝) as he stuck in 2 needles in my shoulder without me even flinching, did some more magic, stretching, pulling and with a few proper adjustments of my neck and spine (popping which would have made bubble wrap embarrassed) he was done. Applied some strapping, some more advice to boot and said I needed to see him in 2 days for a follow up. I already felt like a new man, so I wondered if I would be back, but walking out and seeing the next appointment of his hobbling in on crutches peaked my interest... Two days later, with my shoulder 90% better already I was back and the Dr did the similar sequence and by now I was feeling 100s... To my amazement, on the way out from this appointment, the same crutches guy who could barely make it around 2 days ago WALKED in (albeit looking tender) but literally like a walking miracle given what I had seen of him previously 😱😱 Forget the Pastors of Doom, eating grass and all that kind of stuff, of you're looking for some healing then place yourself in the care of this guy 😉👌🏼 All I can say is I'll probably be paying him monthly visits now just to have my back realigned and for a general chat session, as it was just that worth it 👨⚕️🙌🏽 Mich DonneTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Over 15 months of battling with a chronic running injury , I was skeptical of yet more help. But Neil was confident he could help. So glad I went. I am proof that his methods work. Pain management, the central nervous system and the training the brain. After a few sessions of chiro, monthly rehab and using the tens machine that he provided, I am at last pain free. Neil I am so grateful. Long may this carry on. Thank you thank you. 😁
I’ve been a chiropractor since 2009, and my passion for helping people has only grown over the years. I started my career with practices in Ladysmith and Vryheid before moving to Hillcrest in 2014. There, I took over a practice in Westville and began focusing on pain management.
“With a dedication to patient care and a holistic approach to pain management, Dr. Neil Cuninghame offers exceptional chiropractic services in Hillcrest. His additional qualifications in interdisciplinary pain management ensure that patients receive comprehensive care tailored to their specific needs.”
At my Hillcrest Chiropractic practice, I’ve created a welcoming space where you can feel supported and empowered. Located in Meyrickton Park, The Hillcrest Chiro is more than just a chiropractic clinic—it’s a hub of healthcare professionals. This includes General Practitioners, Physiotherapists, Psychologists, and more. As a result, we can work together as a team to provide you with comprehensive care.
Whether you’re recovering from an injury, managing chronic pain, or simply looking to stay active and pain-free, I’m here to help. My goal is to empower you with the tools and knowledge you need to live a healthier, more fulfilling life.
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Disclaimer: These blog posts are for informational purposes only and are not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalised recommendations.
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