Back pain is a very common problem affecting approximately 50-80% of people in the United Kingdom. It is a condition which can be difficult to manage as it can be caused by a variety of factors and affects people in many different ways.
For most people back pain is a short term problem which resolves itself fairly quickly but for a few it can become a bigger health concern.
In order to prevent back pain from becoming chronic and to manage it if it does affect you there are some simple steps you can take. Exercise has been proven to be the best way to both prevent and manage back pain. Many people with back pain benefit from exercises including yoga, swimming and Pilates, however, it does not matter which exercise you do as long as you are active. Simple steps such as getting off a bus one stop early and walking the rest of your journey or taking the stairs instead of a lift also play a part in helping you keep active. Remaining active keeps your back strong and less prone to back pain or helps strengthen your back so you can recover faster. Maintaining a generally healthy lifestyle also helps with back health; avoid smoking, try to reduce levels of stress and maintain a healthy weight. It may also help to be more aware of your posture; avoid slouching and try not to stay in the same positions for long periods of time.
Environmental factors also impact back pain and factors such as your office workstation, your sofa or your bed can cause back pain or make it worse. To prevent this modify your environment so it is more comfortable for your back. Talking to your employers about getting ergonomic office furniture, ensuring you stick to safe manual handling practices or replacing an old sofa or bed could all have a positive effect on back pain.
When back pain first strikes taking painkillers regularly can help you manage the pain allowing you to remain active and hot and cold packs may also be helpful. If your back pain persists or gets worse visit a doctor who can carry out tests to determine the cause of your back pain and treat it accordingly.
The Back Book - a guide for patients based on the latest research. It should be suitable for anyone with back pain, and doctors or therapists may give it to their patients to help with early management. It is linked with the Royal College of General Practitioners and the Faculty of occupational Medicine guidelines for back pain.
Patient Leaflet - example of a patient leaflet (adapted from Adenbrookes) [Word]
