These figures echo our clinical experience too. LBP is one of the most common presentations we see in our clinic. In most cases the treatment is straight forward and clients respond very well. We hope reading today's post might help you avoid becoming one of those 76% - or at the very least one of the 26.

Most acute LBP is avoidable. Here are some simple things you can do to avoid becoming a statistic:

• Warm up before doing sport, gardening or lifting. Do some simple stretches and make sure your back is kept warm at all times.
• When lifting, bend the knees and lift with the object close in to the body.
• Do not overestimate your ability to lift an object; it is far better to do several trips with lighter loads.
• If working on the computer, or at a desk, take frequent breaks, get up and stretch. Above all make sure you have a good chair.
• Be mindful of your posture. Remember the old maxim: head up, chin out, tummy in back straight.
• Take up some regular exercise that includes some form of stretching. Yoga, Pilates and Tai Qi are great choices.
• Eat well. It might surprise you to learn that your diet will have an impact on your back’s health (and the rest of your body). Make sure your diet includes foods rich in iron, calcium, magnesium and Vitamin C - the all important minerals/vitamins for bones and muscles.
• It is also a great idea to be taking some (good quality) fish oil. If you are prone back problems it might also be worth considering Chrondrosamine.
• Take time out to enjoy life. Work might be important to pay the bills, but balance is crucial. Remember the maxim: All work and no play ... !
• And if you are carrying a load on your back (metaphorically speaking); it might be time to think about the connection between mind and body and lighten the load.

Of course if you do suffer from back pain we are always here to assist you. We can provide you with professional treatment options (Physiotherapy, Acupuncture and Shiatsu - all excellent tools for managing back pain). We can even combine the treatment modalities to suit your specific needs. We also offer ongoing support for those who may require regular maintenance.

In addition to treatment we offer you after care service including stretching programs, exercise advice, dietary advice and good old fashioned practical tips that are tailored to your specific needs. Our aim is always to help you to get better and stay better.

Audrey also offers a Yoga For Spinal Health class (or one-on-one programs) for those wishing to improve their flexibly, core strength and relaxation. Greg can also assist you to deal with the not so physical “pain in the back’ or the “heavy loads of life”.

If you have any questions and/or seek advice we are only a phone call away.

Regards
Audrey & Greg

Tags: Back pain, chondrosamine, vitamins