One in five suffers from back pain that interferes with their work and home life and one in 20 are living with constant pain. It’s BackCare Awareness Week this week and Nuffield Health, the UK’s largest healthcare charity, is urging anyone suffering with back pain to seek help sooner rather than later.

Liz Adair, Director, Physiotherapy at Nuffield Health, says: “Back pain can happen to anyone at any time, but there are simple ways to avoid it. The most important action is to seek expert advice quickly, as research shows that early intervention is the key to getting rid of pain. Regular physical activity can help to keep your body supple and strong. Warm up exercises before launching into a strenuous activity can avoid days of aches and pain afterwards. Making sure you are supported correctly when sitting in the car, at a desk, or when sleeping will also have an impact. For those who suffer injury or longer term pain, ‘hands-on treatment’ may be necessary.”

Integrated clinical services manager at Nuffield Health Bournemouth Hospital, Susan Mulligan, says: “You shouldn’t have to just put up with back pain any more. Our physiotherapists can help you treat or self-manage your twinges, aches or pains. What better time than during BackCare Awareness Week to book an appointment with us to get advice on how to treat and keep your back healthy and pain-free.”