Back pain is very common, particularly lower back pain (lumbago) and is the largest reported reason for sickness absence in the UK. Back pain often isn’t caused by anything serious and will generally improve within a few weeks or months without the need to see a health professional. It is generally recommended you stay as active as possible with gentle stretches and exercises such as swimming, walking and yoga often recommended. If the pain is severe or shows no signs of gradual improvement, it is recommended you see a therapist or your GP.
Keeping fit and active, ensuring a good diet and not being overweight are basic steps to take in order to help keep your back strong and avoid back pain. Bad posture, particularly if sitting at a desk for long periods of time, can dramitaically impact the likelihood of back pain. Cris Ramis’s article The Importance of Good Posture may be of interest.
