Interesting Facts On Low Back Pain

Did you know…

• 79% of Australians are affected by low back pain in their life time? (Walker, Muller & Grant, 2004).
• For most people, their low back pain won’t be harmful, will require minimal intervention (Brox et al, 2008) and will resolve itself.
• 82% of people return to work within one month (Pengel et al, 2003).
• However 10-20% of people will develop chronic pain as a result of their low back pain (Maher, 2004) and 60% will experience a recurrence within 2 years (Choi et al, 2010).

Here are some tips to help avoid your low back pain from becoming persistent or from returning:

• Keep active. One of the best things to do for back pain is exercise, however make sure your pain is eased by the movement, not exacerbated.
• Avoid activities that worsen your pain, don’t push through it!
• If sitting hurts, try putting a rolled up towel or small cushion against your lower back and try to avoid sitting on low couches or chairs.
• Seek treatment early, don’t put it off. This will help you manage your pain. Unfortunately the longer you have had the pain for, the longer your rehab may last for.

For more information on how to manage your back pain, click here to book an appointment with one of our physiotherapists or call us on 8555 4099.