Why we have Back Pain

Back pain in 19 out of 20 people is linked to the way the bones, ligaments and muscles of the back work together. This is called simple back pain. The pain can begin suddenly but can also come on gradually due to strain over time. Usually nothing abnormal shows up in tests such as X-rays and nothing is permanently damaged.

Simple back pain is most common in adults aged 35 to 55 who are otherwise healthy. The pain is often in the lower back (lumbar region), and may also spread to the buttocks and thighs. It will come and go at different times, and depending on your level of activity.

Triggers for simple back pain include:

• poor posture
• standing or bending down for long periods
• sitting in a chair that doesn't provide enough back support
• lifting, carrying, pushing or pulling loads that are simply too heavy, or going about these tasks in the wrong way
• a trip or a fall

Your spine is a very strong part of your body and is not easily damaged. If you have back pain, it's important that you stay physically active. This is good for your back because keeping active will help speed up your recovery from simple back pain. Nine out of ten people with back pain recover completely within six weeks.

(Source : BUPA's health information team @ www.backcare.org.uk )