UNDERSTANDING BACK TROUBLE: PREVENTING A RECURRENCE-MAKING THE BEST OF THINGS AND PAIN CLINICS

Chronic back sufferers can do much to help themselves. First of all, there are almost certainly alternative ways of tackling any particular job which cause less spinal stress and are therefore less painful, and which are physically more efficient. Also, it is possible to alter or redesign your working environment with the aim of minimising postural stress on the spine: by adjusting the height of a working surface, by changing your own posture, by choosing a different chair or desk.

There are a number of aids to back comfort, some designed for the disabled, which can be used to make life more independent.

Pain clinics-If you have chronic back pain which you are finding hard to cope with, your GP may refer you to a pain clinic run through a local hospital or physiotherapist. A number of services are offered at such a clinic, although the particular range varies from health authority to health authority. Advice on pain-killing drugs will be given, suitable physiotherapy techniques, occupational therapy, and counselling may also be available. Some clinics employ acupuncturists who specialise in pain relief, and TENS machines may be used.

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