Feature Top Tip

Healthy Back

Back pain issues are one of the most common aliments people suffer from in the UK. In 2000 49% of the adult population had reported suffering lower back pain for at least 24hrs over the course of the year, and 1 in 6 working days are lost due to back pain in the UK.

If you do suffer from muscular back pain at some point the worst thing you can do is stay in bed or be immobile, yes you must rest (i.e. no picking up objects or sudden/ jerky movements) but you still need to move as immobility can cause the muscles to weaken and become stiff which can then make recovery much harder.

The best option is to do all that you can to prevent your back from gaining a weakness or injury in the first place.

You can do this by attending classes such as Pilates which concentrate on your “core” muscles which are your various different back and stomach muscles. Pilates encourages you to work these muscle groups together so that they are more effective in supporting each other on a daily basis.

Here are a few tips to help prevent any back problems day to day:-

Take regular exercise, not only does it keep all your muscles strong and healthy but if you can loose any excess weight then it will help to take any pressure off your back.

If you have to sit for long periods of time at work ensure that you don’t slouch in your chair, that your feet are placed flat on the floor and that you change positions regularly.