Your back is a highly complex structure of bones, muscles, nerves and joints and this can often make it difficult to pinpoint the exact cause of the pain. More often than not back pain is caused by minor sprains/strains or by pinched or irritated nerve.

 

Often back pain is triggered by normal everyday activities such as bending, lifting, poor posture, twisting and over-exertion. This can develop over a period of time or perhaps develop suddenly for no apparent reason. 

 

Initially, back pain is usually relieved with over-the-counter painkillers and most people will experience a significant improvement in their symptoms within six weeks.

 

In the past it was often recommended that bed rest would help you recover from a bad back. Nowadays however extensive studies have hown that in facts its the people who continue to remain active who are likely to recover quicker. Of course this can be difficult if the pain is severe but even just a little each day can be highly beneficial - just walking round the house or popping out to the shops for example. 

Some discomfort is to be expected although you should avoid anything which causes a lot of pain.

 

There is no need to wait until you are completely pain-free before returning to work. Going back to work will help you return to a normal pattern of activity, and it can distract you from the pain.

 

Some people find that heat (a hot bath or a hot water bottle for example) helps ease the pain. Other people find that cold (an ice pack for example) is more effective. 

 

Whilst often easier said than done, trying to relax is important. Muscle tension caused by worrying about your condition may make things worse. Stay optimistic and recognise that your pain should get better because people who manage to stay positive despite their pain tend to recover quicker.

 

Where pain persists or where you are concerned and would like appropriate professional advice ProPhysio is able to help.

 

At ProPhysio our goal is simple - to restore movement and function, eliminate pain and minimise the change of reoccurance when someone is affected by injury, illness or disability.

 

We treat people of all ages, helping them manage pain and using a number of methods to aid recovery.