Back Pain
Back pain affects all industries, not just a few high-risk sectors. In 2003/04 an estimated 4.9 million working days (full day equivalent) were lost due to back pain caused or made worse by work.
Who gets back pain?
Most of us have back pain at some time. Usually the pain is not due to anything serious. If treated correctly it can disappear within a matter of days or weeks. Many people manage the problem themselves without seeing their doctor. But those who experience severe pain, those worried about their back pain or those for whom the pain persists or suddenly gets worse, should see a doctor. When the back is painful, activity may be limited for a short time but that does not necessarily mean that continuing to stay active, or at work, will do any harm.
What causes back pain?
Most back pain does not have an identifiable cause. Worrying about back pain may make it worse and hold back recovery. It is natural to worry about the pain you are experiencing, but you should be assured that in most cases, pain is not due to anything serious and can be overcome by following simple advice.
What can we do about back pain?
In the past, the accepted response to back pain was bed rest. Evidence now shows that rest does not help recovery. Trying to reduce the pain by avoiding activity can lead to a much longer recovery time and possibly long-term back pain. It is much better to keep to normal levels of day-to-day activity, using simple pain relief if needed. Manipulative treatment can help in some cases. In particular, having a painful back need not necessarily stop anyone going to work. In fact, the longer someone is off work because of back pain the less likely they are to ever go back. A gradual return to work, with modified tasks, will often help recovery.