Expert advice for residents for National Back Care Week
A leading Winchester back care expert is offering Hampshire residents advice on all aspects of back care, to mark this year’s National Back Care Week.
“Back pain is a huge issue, indeed it is thought that up to 80% of the population will experience back pain at some stage in their life“, says chiropractor Kari Duggleby, who heads up the team at Agilaflex Clinic.
It is estimated that four out of every five adults (80%) will experience back pain at some stage in their life and it is most commonly found in adults aged between 35 to 55 years of age.
Kari added: “The National Health Service spends more than £1 billion per year on back pain related costs and it is thought to be second biggest cause of long term sickness in much of the UK.
“The good news is there are a number of steps you can take to reduce the risk of developing back problems.”
The team at Agilaflex Clinic based on Parchment Street has absorbed and developed the services offered by Winchester Chiropractic Clinic and provides specialist advice and treatment to patients suffering from back, neck and joint pain. With experts employed in all disciplines the clinic can offer the most comprehensive service of its kind in the country.
Kari’s top tips for a healthier back
Posture – think about your posture. Poor posture while at work or driving, or even lounging in front of the TV, can all lead to potential problems. If you are driving long distances, make sure you stop for regular breaks. At work, look at where you sit and if you use a computer make sure the monitor is directly in front of you and not to one side and that you are not reaching or stretching for the mouse. When sitting for periods of time, try and stand up and walk around every 20 – 50 minutes even for a few seconds.
Lifting – continue lifting but avoid spending your whole day lifting. Also be careful when you are lifting and carrying to ensure you take regular breaks. Don’t try and lift too much in one go, as this will put your back under unnecessary strain. If you are lifting, always bend your hips and knees which will allow you to keep your back straight as you lift, and carry items close to your body. If you’re using a bag, try to choose a rucksack with two straps tied securely together across your chest instead of a sling bag, as this will help to distribute the weight more effectively.
Fitness – it is important to stay active and to keep your back moving and to maintain postural endurance. This can apply to people with existing back problems, unless they have been specifically advised otherwise by their specialist medical team. Staying sedentary can prolong recovery. Walking and swimming can be excellent ways to challenge back muscles in a safe way.
Speak up – if you are concerned about your back, you should always seek the advice of a qualified expert.
