Golden rules to avoid back pain

For those suffering back pan… and those who would like to avoid it!

• Pain is a warning that should not be ignored hoping it will go away.  Never persist in taking painkillers.
• Sit on firm-cushioned, upright chairs and try not to slouch on soft cushions.
• Do not sit for prolonged periods, it often makes a sore back worse.
• Sleep on a supportive but not hard bed.  Never sleep on the floor.  Sleep on your side if possible and get out of bed carefully in the morning.
• Staying in bed does not help most kinds of back pain.  Move around frequently.
• Do not cough or sneeze in a bent over position.
• Avoid bending, lifting or twisting.
• When shopping, walk purposefully, don’t amble.
• Do not use heat, ice packs work best.
• If it hurts, stop what you are doing to make it sore.
• Do not delay seeking treatment; it is more difficult to treat problems which have become ingrained.