Back pain causes 13 million working days to be lost in Britain each year. The spine is made up of 24 bones and associated cartilage and tendons. It supports the whole weight of the upper body and therefore it is understandable that it sometimes goes wrong.

It is advisable to consult your doctor if back pain perists for more than a few days. If the pain has been caused by heavy lifting etc. then be sensible and take things easy. Take care to sit upright with a support for the small of the back. Take aspirin or paracetamol, which will relieve the pain and inflammation.

Your doctor may prescribe strong painkillers, gentle exercise or physiotherapy.