BackCare

BackCare Awareness Week

23 Jun 2009

This year's theme 'Work it Out' focuses on back pain and work. Read more about how you participate.

Back pain is one of the most common causes of absence from work in the UK – yet it can be controlled. Our increasingly sedentary lifestyles may be partly to blame. Driving, sitting at a computer, slouching in front of the TV, all increase our risk of back pain. Heavy manual work, repetitive movements, lifting while twisting the back and sitting or standing in an awkward position for long periods can also lead to back pain. However there are many things which can be done to minimise the risk of back pain.

The theme of this year’s annual BackCare Awareness Week is managing and preventing back pain at work. Your employer must meet certain minimum requirements to protect your health and safety, but as an employee you also have a responsibility. Our bodies are better designed to be on the move, than spend long periods of time in the same position.  So it is important to change your position at least every 20 minutes, more so if you are sitting at a desk or workstation. If you do work at a desk or workstation it is important to choose a good office chair and adjust your workstation to suit you. Take advantage of breaks; walk away from your desk to read, plan or just eat a sandwich. Take a trip at lunchtime and go for a walk. Walking reduces the risk of back pain, as well as heart disease and stress.

For information on organising an event for Backcare Awareness Week 10 – 16 October 2009 or further information about managing and preventing back pain at work please contact BackCare on 0208 977 5474 or keep an eye on our website where we will publish more information very soon.

Click here to pre order your Awareness Week Pack