Back pain is one of the commonest problems to affect people and is responsible for many days lost from work. Most commonly the pain is caused by minor damage to the ligaments and muscles in the back. This may occur from sitting or standing in the wrong position, straining the muscles when lifting or twisting, or from being overweight. Less often back pain is caused by a 'slipped disc', or disease in the spine itself such as arthritis.

A sharp pain may appear in a localised area or more commonly be felt as a generalised ache in the lower back and buttocks. There may be back stiffness and difficulty bending.

Pain may radiate down the back of the leg to the foot and be accompanied by numbness or tingling when a disc prolapses and puts pressure on the nerves causing sciatica.

Back pain that is associated with weight loss or difficulty controlling bowel or bladder function may be caused by a serious disorder and immediate medical advice should be sorted.

Four out of 5 people suffer back pain some time in their lives. It is more common if someone is overweight or if they sit bending for long periods of time. Although back pain can occur at any age the peak time is between the ages of 45 59 years old. Men and women tend to be affected equally.

Learn to lift correctly, avoid being overweight, maintain a correct posture, and do regular back exercises to strengthen the muscles that support the back. Don't sit or stand in the same position for longer than about 20 minutes.

For muscular low back pain current advice is to remain as active as possible.

Lose weight if necessary. Swimming, walking, and yoga are good exercises to keep the back fit.

Painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs are used, as are physiotherapy, osteopathy, massage, and acupuncture.

Depending on the cause of the back pain anaesthetic injections or surgery is sometimes performed but only when your physician advises.

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