How to combat back pain

Thousands of people's lives are blighted by the misery of back pain each year.

A bad back can be caused by anything from an accidental trip or slip at work to the stresses of childbirth, or even just twisting awkwardly while getting up out of a chair.

Pain results from a sprain or strain of the muscles, ligaments, joints or discs in the back and can be very debilitating for the individual. The discomfort can be so bad that it can be very difficult to move, let alone go out to work or chase round after your small children.

In most cases, the pain is due to minor damage to the ligaments and muscle and may occur from sitting or standing in the wrong position, straining the muscles when lifting or twisting, or from being overweight.
Sometimes back pain is caused by a slipped disc or disease in the spine itself, muscle tears or an abnormal curvature of the spine.

Not only is this a problem for the individual, it's also a major issue for the UK economy as back pain causes lost production and is one of the most common causes of sickness absence from work.

The National Health Service spends more than £1 billion per year on back pain related costs, including £512 million on hospital costs for back pain patients, more than £140 million on GP consultations and a further £150.6 million on physiotherapy treatments.

Indirectly, there are hidden costs to back pain, too. The Health and Safety Executive estimates that musculoskeletal disorders cost UK employers up to £624 million per year.

Everyone can be affected by back pain, but it's more common in those who are overweight or who sit slouching for long periods of time.

According to Dr Trish McNair, writing on the BBC health website, back pain can occur at any age, but the peak time is between the ages of 45 and 59. Men and women tend to be affected equally.

She advises: "Seek specialist help as early as possible, when treatment is most effective, and before acute problems become chronic. In the acute stages, some treatments help most people.

"Regular and effective pain relief is essential. For the first two to three days after a sudden injury, take painkillers at fixed intervals as directed on the label - don't wait for the pain to kick in before taking the next dose. If this isn't enough to control the pain, get advice from your pharmacist or doctor.

"Applying alternate hot and cold compresses to the affected area may also help relieve pain. It's recommended you remain as active as possible rather than lying flat on your back for days on end, unless specifically advised otherwise by your doctor."

It is possible to prevent low back pain, or reduce the chance of it recurring. Being fitter and developing a strong back and good posture will help to reduce the risk.

It is also advisable to learn how to lift safely, whether it's children or suitcases, ensure you know how to pick something up without putting unnecessary strain on your back.

Most of Westfield Health cash plans include a therapy treatments benefit offering money back, up to set limits, on treatments such as physiotherapy, acupuncture, chiropractic and osteopathy.