According to consumer research from the British Chiropractic Association, the number of people suffering from back and neck pain rose by almost 10% over the past year.  86% of those surveyed currently experience back or neck ache or have suffered from it in the past; this compares to 77% last year*. We spoke to Active Health Clinics in Maidenhead to get their view on this worrying trend.

The figures reveal that almost one in four of those that suffer pain, feel it every day. Among 16-24 year olds, 45% are feeling strain and with them spending only 2 hours being active every day, this figure has risen from 28%.

Tim Hutchful, a BCA chiropractor had commented: “We’re seeing a rise in the number of people experiencing back and neck related problems because our modern lifestyle is forcing us to stay seated and I’m concerned that the number of patients under the age of 30 coming to see us is increasing.”

The BCA research reveals some interesting statistics:

During the average day we spend;

  • 1.8 hours sitting down, checking mobile technology
  • 3.7 hours sitting down working on a laptop or a PC
  • 1.4 hours sitting down gaming
  • 2.8 hours sitting down watching TV/films

“Many people are completely unaware that staying in the same position can cause unnecessary strain on the back. Whether at your desk, on your tablet or sitting watching TV, it’s really important to take regular breaks to relieve the build-up of tension in your lower back. Sitting causes up to twice as much pressure on discs on the spine as standing so, as a nation, we’re vulnerable.”

In a bid to combat the UK’s neck and back pain problems, the BCA is calling for a step change in how we treat our backs, both at work and at home.

As your back is constantly working, even when relaxing, it’s important to regularly move around and stretch.

Active Health Clinics have the following recommendations to combat the strain on your back and neck:

  • Spend more time sitting up straight: It’s important to relax when sitting in a seat, but make sure you have your bottom firmly against the back of the seat back with your shoulder blades touching the back rest. When driving, you should set the back of the seat slightly backwards,; this will feel more natural with your elbows at a better angle for driving.
  • Be computer literate: Your screen should be level with your eyeline and your chair should be titled slightly forward. This will allow your knees to be lower than your hips and your feet to be firmly flat on the floor. Limit the amount of time you spend on a laptop or tablet as his causes poor posture; where possible keep the screen at eye level.
  • Take breaks regularly: Avoid sitting for more than 30 minutes at any time – stand and stretch, change your position or even walk around a little. Gently massaging the back of your head and neck is good, as is relaxing your stomach region and breathing easily. These tips will promote better balance and help to improve your posture and reduce your back pain
  • Don’t forget to drink: Drinking water instead of hot beverages is healthier and keeps your body hydrated.

Find Out More

If you have any questions, Active Health Clinics (www.activehealthclinics.com) are ready and waiting to hear from you. Call 01628 626565 where one of their experienced team will be happy to answer your questions.