BACK PAIN - TIPS ON PREVENTION

Exercise is essential

It is estimated that up to 90 percent of the population will suffer back or neck pain at some stage of their lives, and yet very little information is provided to the public about this major health problem and how to avoid it. In this first article in a series we hope to provide you with important information that will help you prevent, and better cope with this common problem.

One of the few things that has been scientifically shown to benefit almost all types of back and neck pain is regular exercise. Studies show that an individual that regularly exercises will have less chance of having back and neck pain, and if they have this problem they will be better off than if they don't exercise.

It can be hard to start exercise, and even harder to continue a regular programme. Many types of exercise can be of benefit, but perhaps the simplest and easiest is walking. Contrary to some beliefs walking does not jar or shock the spine if carried out properly and if gradually introduced, and can be just as good for you as swimming.

If you do suffer from back or neck pain it is vital to have the problem accurately diagnosed. There are many different forms of treatment available now days. Some treatments are better suited for particular problems than others. There is no one form of treatment that will help all problems or all individuals.

If you suffer from back or neck pain, it is important to do something about it as soon as possible. That's not to say that longer term problems cannot be helped. It simple means that the longer the problem exists the harder it is to fix.