HOW TO MANAGE BACK PAIN

AN EXPERT ANSWERS ALL YOUR BURNING QUESTIONS

Computer shoulders, carrying the kids around… back pain is the second most widespread health complaint after the common cold, according to research by Roy Morgan. ‘If someone comes to see me with back pain, first I’d rule out anything serious,’ says GP Dr Ginni Mansberg. ‘Then we’ll generally treat it with an over-the-counter analgesic. If things aren’t going in the right direction after a couple of weeks, then go back to the doctor.’

SHOULD YOU USE A HEAT OR COLD PACK TO EASE PAIN?

‘Heat pack. A microwaveable heat pack is great,’ says Ginni. ‘Ice is good as an antiinflammatory, but pain comes when muscles go into spasm to try and protect your back. You may have an inflamed disc or joint, and heat is the best way to treat the pain.’ A HEAT PACK CAN BE A GODSEND WHEN PAIN STRIKES

WHEN IS IT OK TO TAKE PAINKILLERS?

The choice of painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs needs to be discussed with a doctor,’ says Sarah Key, a physiotherapist and author of Back Sufferers’ Bible. ‘He or she will know from your medical history if there are contraindications to taking them.’

IS BED REST OR MOVEMENT BEST?

‘Movement is better than staying in bed, but it needs to be gentle,’ says Ginni. ‘You might feel like doing nothing but this is the one case where I would say don’t listen to your body! If you’re stationary you’ll get secondary muscle spasms in other parts of your body – mobilising helps make sure all of your muscles are moving properly,’ she says.