A recent survey of 1000 people with back pain aged 25-65, found that more than a third thought bed rest was the best remedy.

In fact the opposite is true! Exercise such as swimming or Pilates can help with muscle and joint pain, and your physiotherapist will advise you on the right sort of exercises to help reduce your pain and stop it from returning.

Back pain is a ‘Musculoskeletal disorder’ (MSD) which also includes neck pain and repetitive strain injury. One of the main causes of people being off sick from work, MSDs are effectively treated with physiotherapy, with one study showing that 80% of people who had physiotherapy for their MSD were able to carry on working without going off sick.

Many people mistakenly believe that you always needed a GP referral to see a physiotherapist, which isn’t the case. If you are suffering with back pain, the quicker you can get to see a physiotherapist the better, so a speedy self referral is key, as NHS waiting times are usually very long!

A physiotherapist will first check if you have any serious health problems that could be connected to your back pain. They will then find the cause of your pain, and look at ways to help prevent further problems, using effective methods such as manual treatments and acupuncture, an appropriate exercise plan and pain relief.

Here at Blizard Physiotherapy we have a friendly team of highly qualified physiotherapists and massage therapists available at flexible appointment times to suit your needs. We also offer Pilates and gentle exercise classes. We are committed to improving the health and well being of our patients and enabling them to continue with an active and pain-free lifestyle.