So, how can you ease or prevent back pain and keep your spine in good shape? We asked some of The Forge Clinic practitioners to share their top tips for a healthier back.

Lara Maddison, Physiotherapist agrees that stretching is key. She adds: “Tight hamstring muscles are a little-known cause of low back pain and can be rectified with simple stretches to decrease the pressure on your lower back. One example is to sit on the edge of a chair and straighten one leg out in front of you. Keeping that knee straight gently tip from the hip until you feel the stretch in the back of the leg. Hold for thirty seconds. Repeat three times each side.”

Naomi Johns, Massage Therapist points out that it’s also important to stretch your hip flexors, which are a group of muscles in the front of the hip. Naomi says: “They are prone to becoming short and tightened, especially if we spend a lot of our day sitting. Try this simple stretching exercise – from a standing position take a step back with one leg and kneel down on your back knee. Don’t arch your lower back, your spine should remain neutral. You are looking to shift weight onto the back hip, which is where you should feel the stretch.”

David Silver, Physiotherapist suggests that movement is vital for reducing back pain. “Sitting is only going to make it worse. If you work at a computer, try a variable height desk and spend more time standing. Use it or lose it – it really is that simple.” David adds: “Most people think back pain is a serious problem that has lasting consequences. You can strain your back just like you can your ankle. But we don’t lie down for a week if we’ve strained our ankle. Movement is key and not to worry overly. It will improve.”

Finally, Phil McNulty, Osteopath believes that looking after your general health will also help to improve pain levels. “Lose excess weight, give up smoking and take steps to address stress,” he says.

So, remember exercise and gentle stretching will help to strengthen your back muscles and relieve and prevent back pain. While, a sports and remedial massage will help to relieve tightness and stiffness, as well as alleviate stress.

BE BACK AWARE: LOVE YOUR BACK AND IT WILL LOVE YOU BACK

At The Forge Clinic in Richmond, our practitioners have a wealth of experience in treating and preventing back pain. They can teach you how to strengthen your back, support your spine and relieve pain. Book an appointment before 20th October and you can save £10 on any single back care treatment – see below.

Also, do read our latest information on how to look after your spine and what to do about back pain, with our guide: Back pain: Facts and Fiction.

£10 OFF ANY BACK CARE TREATMENT THIS OCTOBER

To mark BackCare Awareness Week we are offering a discount of £10* off any single back treatment at The Forge Clinic from the 8th to the 20th October including:

Osteopathy, Physiotherapy or Sports Massage

To make an appointment please call us on 020 8332 6184, email info@theforgeclinic.com, or you can book online.

*Terms and conditions:

  • Off peak appointments only £50, normally £60
  • Peak appointments only £55, normally £65
  • Offer available from 8th to 20th October 2018
  • Discount must be mention at booking
  • Discount cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer
  • Please note that our treatments do not replace medical advice and treatment. If you have any concerns, please consult your GP.