About 80% of people will suffer back pain at some stage in their lives. In our segment health and fitness expert, Dr Garry Egger, looked at some of the ways of preventing lower back pain.
What causes back pain?
Garry said that one common cause of back pain is leg length difference. Many people have one leg that is slightly shorter than the other, and this can cause a considerable amount of pain in the lower back when walking long distances.
Tips for preventing back pain:
Always take your wallet out of your back pocket when driving long distances. Even a thin wallet in the pocket can cause the back to be unbalanced, and cause back pain.
Support the lower back when driving by using a foam cushion, or roll up a small towel and place it between the lower back and the seat.
If you’re working in the garden remember to bend from the knees rather than from the waist. This takes the pressure off your back. It’s also a good idea to regularly stand up and stretch back the other way to relieve back tension.
If you have heavy work to do in the garden but you’re not used to vigorous physical exercise, it’s important to pace yourself. A macho attitude in this situation can lead to back pain.
Lifting weight off the floor
Lifting weight off the floor can cause major back problems. Garry suggested copying the technique used by professional weight lifters. They do not bend over with the back arched. Instead they crouch down, force the pelvis forward, look upwards and then lift the weight. This method enables them to lift even heavy weights without putting too much pressure on the lower back.
Further information
Dr Garry Egger started GutBusters, a scientifically based program that uses waist measurement, not weight, as an indication of fat loss in men. To contact GutBusters phone 1800 674 688, or visit their website: http://www.gutbusters.com.au
If you have a problem with back pain, consult your doctor.
Further reading
‘Back Sufferers’ Bible’ by Sarah Key. Publisher Allen & Unwin (ISBN:1865085308), $24.95. This text for back-pain sufferers charts an easy-to-understand model for the way the human spine breaks down, starting off with commonplace totally reversible conditions (which 90% of us have) and progressing to more difficult ones. It offers advice on treatment programmes, medication and exercise.
‘Back in Action’ by Sarah Key. Publisher Allen & Unwin (ISBN: 1865087343), $22.95. A companion to ‘Back Sufferer’s Bible’, which answers all the most commonly asked questions about back pain.
