Here is a list of simple do’s and don’ts from the HSE that will help you deal with back pain and let you get on with your life.

For more information please contact Nigel or Lisa Mann at The Jersey Sports & Spinal Clinic 01534 490312.

DO’S

• Do stay as active as usual, if possible. But see your doctor if you are worried about the back pain or if the pain persists or suddenly gets worse.
• Do take simple pain relief to help with the pain. Talk to a pharmacist if you have any concerns
• Do speak to your employer or your workers’ representative, your safety representative or a trades union safety representative who can relay your issues to your employer and if necessary, discuss what can be done to help you stay at work.
• Do find out about back pain. A summary of good advice can be found in guidance booklets like The Back Book. (Your GP may be able to give you a copy of this booklet).

DONT’S

• Don’t take to your bed and wait for the pain to go away. The sooner you get back to normal activity the better.
• Don’t worry. Back pain is rarely serious and unnecessary worry delays recovery.
• Don’t avoid activity simply as a way of avoiding the pain – hurt does not always mean harm.

More information on this and other musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) is available at the HSE web site.