Listen to your body
Our bodies are extremely good at giving us information, which we often summarily ignore, but back pain is one of those ailments that is hard to ignore.
Generally, in a healthy body, minor back pain can be managed with good technique, core strength and basic first aid. Back pain can be caused by an accident, overwork, a fall, sport or an illness.
Pain is, first and foremost, an indicator of injury or disease. If you feel pain, stop what you’re doing and evaluate. Ice is a good first response to pain – ice for 10 minutes and alternate with warmth. Rest is also important until a definitive diagnosis is made. Unless pain subsides with rest and ice over a 24-48 hour period, seek professional advice.
Prevent back pain
To prevent back pain, keep your body in good condition. Core strength is vital. The core muscles are those in the abdominal and lower back area. It doesn’t take a huge amount of time to exercise this area, but it makes a huge difference to your overall welbeing.
If nothing else, develop and practice good posture; walk with your stomach held in, your shoulders back and down and your jaw relaxed. Whilst walking, ensure your knees are going in the same direction as your toes, not rolling in or dropping out. Bad posture is incredibly aging and invariably leads to aches and pains.
Flexibility is also important. Bodies that move freely are far less likely to be injured those that don’t. Maintaining a healthy body weight is also very useful for preventing back pain.
Seek professional advice
Resist the temptation to treat back pain with painkillers or anti-inflammatories, unless they are prescribed by a doctor for that particular back pain. Do not share medication or self diagnose.
Most importantly, don’t put up with back pain, In most instances, it can be successfully treated.
Contact your GP or local physiotherapist for specialist information.