Understanding lower back pain......

Lower back pain comes in all forms, from a dull ache across the lower back to shooting sciatic pain. It can cause more disability than any other condition, affecting 1 in 10 people and becoming more common with increasing age. 37% of all chronic pain in men and 44% in women is due to back issues. 40% of all people will experience sciatica at some point in their life.

Stress can be a major contributing factor for pain, due to tension in back muscle which can create a vicious cycle, try and reduce stress related factors in your life.

Listen to your body, as it's the most powerful tool you have. When your body needs a rest it will let you know.

Sciatic Pain

• Don't sit for more than 20 minutes without getting up and moving around for a few minutes.

• Don't forward bend - that includes leaning over a sink to wash your face, bending to pick objects from the floor, reaching across a table, or making the bed.

• Do move though, exercise helps

• Do go to work. Resuming normal day-to-day activities and a normal routine can help after the acute stage.

• Don't lift anything heavy.

• Don't bend and twist at the same time.

• Be careful with any activities that involves impact through your spine.

Top Tips

• Laying neutral on the floor with a pillow to support your head.

• Continue with your normal activities but take your time and don't push yourself.

• Before getting up bring your knees to you chest one at a time.

• Bend your knees when bending over or picking up an object from the floor.

• When carrying an object keep it close to your body.

• Avoid sitting for long periods.

http://www.nhs.uk/Tools/Pages/Back-pain-guide.aspx