
Dr Stephen Humble
MBChB MSc PhD FCARCSI
Consultant in Interventional Spinal Medicine
Introduction
Consultant and Honorary Senior Lecturer at Charing Cross Hospital and St Mary’s Hospital, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, Dr Stephen Humble specialises in pain management and anaesthetics. He is also Medical Director of The London Interventional Clinic where his sub-specialities include spinal interventional techniques, regional anaesthesia, neuropathic pain management, musculoskeletal and joint pain, neck pain, X-ray and ultrasound guided injections, steroid joint injections, Qutenza patch therapy, and cancer pain. In addition, he is an expert in anti-wrinkle injections and skin/cosmetic rejuvenation techniques such as Dermal Filler and Botox injections. Passionate, understanding, and experienced, wherever possible he aims to minimise surgical intervention and his patient-centred approach has led to an outstanding success rate over the years, particularly with patients who have been suffering with long-term pain.
Specialist interests
Back pain
Neck pain
X-ray and ultrasound guided injections
Steroid joint injections
Musculoskeletal and joint pain
Neuropathic (nerve) pain
Qutenza patch therapy
Cancer Pain
About Dr Stephen Humble
Having gained his medical degree in 2000 from the University of Aberdeen, Dr Humble’s postgraduate training in anaesthesia and pain medicine was undertaken in Scotland and Australia. He achieved his Master’s (MSc) in Pain Management in 2010 at the University of Edinburgh and in 2012, attended the University of Dundee adding a PhD in Neuroscience to his already impressive roster of qualifications. He also holds the Level 7 qualification in Aesthetic Medicine from London’s renowned Harley Academy.
Specialising in interventional spinal medicine means Dr Humble is vastly experienced in administering epidurals and other types of spinal injections as well as caring for patients in a holistic way, treating them with medications, exercise and other ‘whole person’ techniques. Because he keeps invasive surgical procedures to a minimum, risk and hospital stays are both reduced. He is also one of the few UK specialists currently treating patients suffering from painful peripheral neuropathy with radiofrequency therapy, RACZ, and capsaicin 179mg patch therapy.
Much published in professional journals, Dr Humble was also featured BBC One’s Health: Truth or Scare programme and is frequently called upon to speak at high-level medical conferences. He is also a Fellow of the London Pain Forum.
Dr Humble’s passion and total focus is to help his patients back to pain-free existences. On a daily basis, he sees patients who have seen other specialists such as osteopaths, physiotherapists, and chiropractors without success, who he has been able to help back to health. Treating a variety of conditions, both short- and long-term, such as slipped discs, sciatica, and severe neck pain, among others. Nothing gives him more satisfaction than making a positive impact on his patients’ lives as they overcome their pain and return to a good quality of life.
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Further reviews
The treatment I received from Doctor Humble over the past number of years has been exceptional. Dr Humble has wonderful bed side manners, he’s a deep thinker, so he’s listening to every word you say, his reports are so detailed they are top class and he’s very quick to get to the crux of your pain and issues. He’s an outstanding consultant, professional and super pleasant.
He’s honest in his opinion and will guide to what in his experience of what the best treatment options are.
I was in excruciating pain when I was first sent to him by another specialist and thankfully, I am pain free now. 5 stars!
GS, June 2022
Having been in considerable pain nearing four years I was desperate to find an accessible, sympathetic pain specialist. At first my medical insurance covered the consultations but not the medications. I became a Guinea pig. The ‘gatekeeper’ of the pain specialist was near-impossible with whom to deal. In spite of thousands of pounds, I was required to make appointments at least a month in advance. My emails and calls took forever to be acknowledged.
Dr Stephen Humble is the opposite in every way. His understanding and caring attitude are of the highest quality. Nothing is too much trouble. I am a complicated, difficult patient with complex problems. His medical secretary Kerry is a gem. However, irritating the questions, she is there to assist and soothe. If Dr Humble unavailable, she will apprise you almost immediately. Should Trust Pilot be applied to this branch of medicine a FULL FIVE STARS. Anyone experiencing what I have been subjected to should switch to Dr Humble and Kerry immediately. Being a pain ‘veteran’, I know the territory.
Sandy Forsyth, June 2022
I was recommended to see Dr Humble by my physiotherapist. I initially underwent lumber joint injections which resulted in a mild improvement, after which I progressed to a radio frequency ablation procedure in the Harley Street Specialist Hospital. This greatly improved my condition and if necessary, would consider repeating.
The clinic proved to be very professionally run which made me feel I was in safe hands. I was taken in at the appointed time and there was no waiting around for hours.
Dr Humble came by when I was awake and informed me reassuringly about what had taken place and what was likely to happen. He has a very easy pleasant manner and I have every confidence in his skills and ability.
Anonymous, Jan 2022
Four years ago, I have had a shoulder injury that has left me with sever muscle neck pains and spasms.
During that period, I have tried copious amount of physiotherapy, Osteopathy, and acupuncture, and the usual anti-inflammatory gels, ibuprofen tablets, and Diazepam as a muscle relaxant, all with very little or no effect , . I finally decided to try a completely new route, and after a great deal of research I found out that Botox is now being used for pain management not only for cosmetic reasons as it is known for.
I researched Dr Stephen Humble, who is a Consultant in Interventional Spinal Medicine/Pain Management, and was impressed with his credentials.
I have been seen by Dr Humble within a short time, and two weeks later had my first dose of Botox injections.
Today is the 9th day since my treatment, and what a relief to get up in the morning without the pain , and the stress that comes with is. I will be reviewed by Dr Humble in a few days’ time, at which time he will decide if I need a top up which is normal, as they always start with a low dose . But I already feel a marked difference.
While we know it’s not a cure, if it needs to be done twice a year , so be it, it’s well worth it, for the sake of not having the daily battle of enduring and hiding the pain and discomfort.
Dr Humble is a very mild-mannered man, listens intently, empathises, and explains clearly his diagnosis and line of treatment.
Based on my experience, I would have no hesitation to recommend him to my friends and family.
JG, Jan 2022
I was recommended by a doctor friend to see Dr Stephen Humble as I have been in severe lower back and leg pain. The first thing that struck me as I went into Dr Humble’s consultation room was that he had already done plenty of homework on my specific ailments. I had submitted an online questionnaire prior to my appointment as well as supplying as much information as I could. This was such an advantage as it meant I didn’t have to waste valuable consultation time explaining everything. Dr Humble went through all my ailments (and there are many!) very clearly with me, probably better than any other doctor I have seen previously. I found him extremely easy to communicate with and he was very thorough when he examined by movement and ability. My appointment was quickly followed up with a detailed letter outlining everything we had gone through. He suggested a very sensible plan for the way forward and the only reason I am not following through with him administering my steroid injections is because my surgeon is of the same opinion, and I have a longer running history with him and his clinic. However, I would like to hope that Dr Humble would see me again as I progress along the pain to a more pain-free life. I cannot recommend him highly enough.
CH, Jan 2022
Many times, whilst I have been under his care, having been referred by Mr. Chatterjee in February 2021, I have wanted to write and express my sincere thanks for the way he has handled my back condition and pain management. So far I have had a series of three steroid injections targeting various areas in the spine, under a programme that he has devised, and at all consultations he has explained fully the procedures that would be happening. When in constant pain it is easy to become very depressed, and in these instances, he has been wonderfully encouraging in all aspects of pain management that he has suggested and explained the result that we were aiming to achieve. In those situations where the effect of the procedure has not been immediately beneficial, he has always shown me “there is light at the end of the tunnel”. His charming encouragement has been so helpful, and at all times he has made me feel that “we will crack it”. I cannot speak highly enough of all that he has done for me.
JN, Jan 2022
I had the pleasure of meeting Dr Humble after looking at treatments for my back and sciatica pain which I had had for years and deciding on his clinic after reading all the great reviews online.
I felt immediately confident and relaxed with his consultation and after a treatment plan was discussed the whole process went so smoothly. Quick day admission followed (no long waiting for appointments) plenty of reassurance and friendly staff made the procedure so seamless, not to mention that I had total trust in Dr Humble. Finally, I felt really listened to.
From barely being able to walk without a crutch before it felt fabulous to be able to get back to day-to-day activities- I felt like a new woman!
Can highly recommend his clinic.
CW, Jan 2022
I have seen Dr Humble twice over the past month as well as having a procedure carried out on my back by him under anaesthetic.
He was extremely thorough in terms of asking for scans and diagnosing the problem with my back. He then explained the findings of the scans in terms that were very clear and in a way that I was able to understand what was going on and what he was then proposing in terms of treatment.
I would recommend him highly
SG, Jan 2022
I had suffered piriformis syndrome for approximately 18 months when I went to see Dr Humble. After examination Dr Humble suggested Botox, steroid and anaesthetic injection. This painless procedure was carried out and I am very pleased to say I am now pain free. I now attend a physiotherapist recommended by Dr Humble in order to strengthen muscles.
I cannot recommend and thank Dr Humble more. From my initial consultation to carrying out my procedure was very quick.
Sue, August 2021
I have been in a lot of pain for about 15 years now and my local NHS hospital in Essex just discharged me from the pain management clinic and told me to do exercises!!! So, I’ve been left in pain.Dr Humble is really nice, very caring; he took his mask off so I could lip read as I’m quite deaf and wear hearing aids.
Both my mum and I were very impressed by how thorough Dr Humble was with the physical examination. I haven’t been checked like that for years. At the end of my consultation, Dr Humble gave me the opportunity to ask him anything I was unsure about and he checked to make sure he hadn’t missed anything. He was very thorough, he explained everything clearly and concisely, he listened to me, he was genuinely interested in me, and my complex medical history and he was very helpful. I highly recommend anyone with back and spine problems to book an appointment to see him.
After my initial consultation Dr Humble performed a spinal denervation procedure and facet joint injections and although it was early days, (the day after the procedure) from my point of view it was a success – I was totally pain free! This is the first time I have been totally pain free for about 15 years!!!
I really can’t find the right words to thank both Dr Humble and his medical secretary enough for all your help, support, patience with me and for the excellent treatment I have received from Dr Humble and his team.
Suzanne, July 2021
My faith and confidence in Dr Humble has never wavered. I trust him absolutely……his kindness, patience and integrity are something never once experienced in 26 years of consulting about a million medics. He clicked with me, first time, gut instinct and liking, so never hesitated for him to do my procedure. Dr Humble is a lovely, lovely man; charming, kind, caring, incredibly efficient and cannot remember having this much confidence in any medic. Not one! He’s a shining star to his profession.
PH, July 2021
I was a patient of Dr Humble and I found him a very pleasant and approachable emphatic consultant who is on top of his profession !!
Gino, June 2021
Contact
To book an appointment or to talk to Dr Humble’s team:
Dr Stephen Humble:
Locations
Dr Humble can see patients at the following locations:
Professional background
Dr Stephen Humble
MBChB MSc PhD FCARCSI
Consultant in Interventional Spinal Medicine
- Spine Intervention Society
- Fellow of the College of Anaesthetists, Royal College of Surgeons Ireland
- Associate Fellow Royal College of Anaesthetists
- Associate Fellow Faculty of Pain Medicine RCoA
- International Association for the Study of Pain
- British Pain Society
- European Society of Regional Anaesthesia & Pain Therapy
- British Medical Association
- Association of Anaesthetists of GB & Ireland
- Australian & New Zealand College of Anaesthetists
- London Pain Forum
- Scottish Society of Anaesthetists
Humble SR, Varela N, Jayaweera A, Bhaskar A. Chronic postsurgical pain and cancer: the catch of surviving the unsurvivable. Curr Opin Support Palliat Care. 2018 Jun;12(2):118-123
Humble SR Mitochondrial dysfunction in diabetic neuropathy may be involved in the development of neuropathic pain via a reduction in neurosteroid synthesis. F1000 Research 2017 In Press
Kailainathan P, Humble S, Dawson H, Cameron, F, Gokani S, Lidder G. A National Survey of Pain Clinics within the United Kingdom and Ireland focusing on the multidisciplinary team and the incorporation of the extended nursing role British Journal of Pain 2017 In Press
Humble SR The global year against pain after surgery Expert Witness Institute Magazine Mar 2017
Humble S, Smith D, Bhaskar A. Apps, bots and Wearables: the future is here at present. Pain News Dec 2016 Vol 14(4) 173-176
Humble SR Neurosteroids are reduced in diabetic neuropathy and may be associated with the development of neuropathic pain F1000Res. 2016 Aug 5;5:1923.
Humble SR Could hot chilli pepper consumption reduce the prevalence of chronic pain? Rapid Response to Lv et al., Consumption of spicy foods and total and cause specific mortality: population based cohort study. BMJ 2015;351:h3942
Humble SR, Dalton A, Li L A systematic review of therapeutic interventions to reduce acute and chronic post-surgical pain after amputation, thoracotomy or mastectomy. Eur J Pain. 2015 Apr; 19(4):451-65. doi: 10.1002/ejp.567
Srivastava D, Humble S How do we follow up patients after interventions for chronic pain? A survey of Consultant Pain Physicians Pain News Sept 2013, 11(3):182-184
Humble SR Death, taxes and back pain Rapid Response to Freynhagen et al., Opioids for chronic non-cancer pain BMJ, May 2013; 346: doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.1136/bmj.f2937
Humble SR Neurosteroids; endogenous analgesics? PhD Thesis, submitted and accepted, University of Dundee, 2013
Raghavan S, Harvey AD, Humble SR. New opioid side effects and implications for long-term therapy Trends in Anaesthesia & Critical Care 2011, 1(1): 18-21 (EMBASE, Science Direct)
Humble SR, Cole S, Antoniewicz P and Colvin JR. Communication with the relatives of critically ill patients. British Journal of Intensive Care. 2009; 19(1): 13-17 (EMBASE)
Humble S. Letter of the month. Teaching communication skills: should we give up? BMJ Career Focus, Jul 2007; 335: 2
Humble S. ‘Heart of Darkness.’ Rapid response to: Sobande AD et al. A hard Day’s night. BMJ Career Focus 2006; 332: 118-119
Humble S. Epidural ‘Failure’ during final stages of Labour. IJOA Vol 15, Issue 1, January 2006, Page 88