COVER Beating back pain

It’s one of the country’s most common ailments, but what are the root causes of back pain and how can it be treated without drugs?

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Back pain seems to be the bane of modern life and something that we ‘just get on with’. A third of adults in the UK report lower back pain every year, which can range from mild discomfort and reaching for the paracetamol to debilitating pain that requires heavy-duty medication and surgery. But why is back pain such a widespread problem and what can we do to prevent it without having to resort to pill popping?

“Back pain is mostly due to bad postural habits in our everyday lives,” says Antonella Cavallone, an Alexander Technique teacher and expert in posture and musculoskeletal rehabilitation.

“Some of the biggest culprits are the way we sit, stand and walk. When you then add on everyday activities such as holding a phone, carrying a bag or picking something up, the problem quickly exacerbates.”

Poor poise places strain on the body and causes unnecessary tension in the muscles. “Over time, it can even lead to disc degeneration that could otherwise be avoided,” warns Antonia. Even if you’re not in pain now, it’s worth making adjustments to your daily habits to protect yourself from future problems.

If you are experiencing persistent back pain visit your

GP, who may refer you for further investigation. This could be with an orthopaedic consultant, physiotherapist or osteopath to find the best course of treatment.

So does this mean a lifetime of painkillers? Happily not. “If potential underlying medical conditions have been eliminated then back pain can most certainly be cured, or at least managed with minimal medication, by making changes to how you use your body, ”says Antonella.

■ For more info visit alexandertechnique.co.uk

‘Back pain is mainly due to bad postural habits’