Misery for millions facing a lottery over back pain treatment
BRITAIN’S sufferers from back trouble face a postcode lottery when it comes to getting treatment or pain relief.
A new report from the British Chiropractic Association shows that our chances of curing, or even reducing pain, depend on where we live.
The research found huge differences in the number of people experiencing long-term back or neck pain across Britain, with rates between regions varying by more than 17 per cent.
A 12 per cent rise in pain has also been reported in the last year.
Northern Ireland has the most sufferers, with 57 per cent saying they currently have back or neck pain.
But those in the South-east appear to have the best back health, with only 40 per cent complaining of pain.
These figures are in comparison to the national average of 44 per cent.
The study also found that those in the Midlands develop back or neck pain the earliest, with 70 per cent of residents suffering by the age of 30.
Catherine Quinn, president of the British Chiropractic Association, said: “It’s interesting to note that certain regions are seeing back and neck pain among a much younger age group.
“This could be a sign that modern, increasingly sedentary lifestyles impact on the younger population’s health.”
The study also showed that Scots suffer most frequently, with a third experiencing back or neck pain on a daily basis, compared to just 17 per cent in London. Lifting and carrying is said to be the top trigger, followed by sitting still for long periods.
Ms Quinn added: “Whatever your age, my top piece of advice would be to ensure you incorporate physical activity into your daily routine.
“There are also a number of simple exercises you can do to prevent pain. For example, putting both hands on the back of your head, pushing your elbows back and then shrugging your shoulders whilst sitting or standing.”
In the UK, some 2.5million people suffer agonising pain every day, with back-related sick days costing the economy more than £1billion.