How to identify problems and ease the pain
Back pain is common
Back pain is very common, with an estimated four out of five adults destined to suffer from it at some stage in their lives. In a recent survey, more than half the adult population of the UK (52 per cent) reported low back pain.
In addition, back pain is the second highest reason for long-term sickness in much of the UK. In manual labour jobs, back pain is the number one reason.
However, every employee can take simple measures to reduce the chances of developing back pain and to reduce the impact of existing back pain.
It should be noted at this stage that your employer has a duty of care. Among the detail of masses of legislation built up over the years are simple principles employers must adhere to. These are to secure the health, safety and welfare of people at work by providing the right instruction (for example, in lifting and handling), the right equipment and a safe, healthy working environment.
So what causes back pain?
In most cases it is very difficult to identify a single cause for back pain. In about 85-90 per cent of back pain sufferers no clear medical reason can be identified.
The following factors can contribute to back pain:
- smoking and obesity
- physical factors, such as heavy physical work, frequent bending, twisting, lifting, pulling and pushing, repetitive work, static postures and vibrations
- psychosocial factors, such as stress, anxiety, depression and job dissatisfaction
- a history of back pain.
Sash Newman, chief executive of BackCare, the charity for healthier backs, says: “As an employee you will spend at least a third of your day at work and it is therefore not surprising that work has a large impact on your health and wellbeing. First, the good news: research has shown that in the majority of cases work is beneficial to your health as being out of work often triggers negative feelings and even ill health.”
Continuing to work if possible while suffering from back pain means that you will have the support of colleagues, you will still have an income, it will keep you active and promote rehabilitation and recovery.
“On the flipside of course there is no doubt that back pain can interfere with your job, although in many cases the pain is not caused by the actual work,” says Sash.
“The conclusion from this is that work should form part of your back pain management. People have found that it is best to be very open about how your back pain affects your work. Effective communication is essential, not only with your line manager but you may also want to brief your colleagues so they know why you are doing the things you do.
“Your organisation may also employ health and safety professionals, occupational health providers or other qualified HR professionals. These people are there to assist you and your manager in reducing health risks and accommodating any reasonable needs you may have.
“If you have any doubts about what you can and cannot do as a result of your back pain, you are recommended to visit your GP or occupational health professional.”
For peace of mind about back pain
Don’t forget that with Benenden Healthcare you can seek advice on back care from our 24/7 GP Advice Line . Benenden Healthcare members can discuss any health concerns they might have in complete confidence. It costs £1.50 per person, per week for Benenden Healthcare Society membership. You can join Benenden Healthcare online.
Benenden Healthcare members may also be eligible for a course of physiotherapy to assit with back conditions.
Further information – health at work
Benenden Healthcare Society provides practical online advice on Health in the Workplace as well as Corporate Healthcare to contribute to your staff benefits package.
Alternatively, call Benenden Healthcare on 0845 052 5733* for information about personal healthcare.
