Interestingly enough, only human beings suffer from backaches, for it is a complaint resulting from modernisation. Modern man, who leads a cushioned life and sits and sleeps on foamy mattresses, is more prone to backaches. Lack of exercise adds to the problem, leading to a paunch, which weakens abdominal muscles and gives rise to a faulty posture which often results in backache. Unaccustomed tasks such as digging or heavy lifting are likely causes. Miners, construction workers and typists have a high risk of back trouble. Overweight people and pregnant women are also liable to strain their back.

GENERAL CAUSES OF BACKACHE
- Poor posture
- Sedentary lifestyle and lack of exercise
- Prolonged standing or bending at work
- Badly designed seating, especially during sedentary work
- Stress

SPECIAL CAUSES OF BACK PAIN
- Lifting, pulling, pushing or carrying objects incorrectly or that are too heavy
- An accident, such as a fall
- Sleeping on a mattress that does not support your back properly
- Menstruation or premenstrual syndrome (PMS)
- Arthritis ? Infection of the vertebrae (such as tuberculosis)
- Collapse of vertebrae often due to osteoporosis in women
- Strain on the back during pregnancy or because of obesity.

IF YOU SUFFER FROM BACK PAIN
Stay fit and active. An exercise program should include stretching and strengthening specifically for the back, and aerobic exercises. Any exercise routine should be gentle and you should never be forced to strain your back.

• Ensure a good sitting position, especially at work.
• Use a chair at the correct height for the work you are doing, and with a proper backrest as this reduces pressure on the lower back. A portable lumbar support can be used on chairs with poor back support or when travelling by car, train or plane. Chairs with armrests help by supporting the weight of the arms.
• Rest the feet flat on the floor or use a foot support to prevent the weight of the lower legs being supported by the front of the thighs.
• Poor lifting technique is a major cause of back strain and injury. Injuries are less likely if you are fit and have strong back, stomach and leg muscles.

PROPER LIFTING TECHNIQUE
- Make a firm base with the feet, keeping them about shoulder width apart
- Lift with the legs, bending the knees rather than the back
- Do not kneel or over bend the knees
- Keep the chin held in and raised as this helps keep the back straight
- Ensure the load is as close to the body as possible
- Keep the arms and elbows tucked in close to the body
- Do not twist the back but change direction by moving the feet

If you have back pain, reduce your activity and avoid further strain. However, prolonged bed-rest may make the pain worse so avoid complete inactivity. Sometimes a hot water bottle or an ice pack applied to the affected area provides relief. Careful stretching and gentle walking often speeds the healing process but over strenuous activity during the first six weeks can bring the problem back and delay recovery. It may help to sleep on a firmer mattress or put a board under the usual one. Alternatively, sufferers can sleep on the floor using a folded towel under the lower portion of the back and a pillow under the knees to aid comfort and position.

HOMEOPATHY AND BACK PAIN
Homeopathic medicines, taken according to the symptoms present, can help in curing most backache - surely, gently, and permanently. Soon after homeopathic treatment you will notice that the backache has reduced in intensity, frequency and duration. You will be able to carry out your daily routine work with a carefree attitude and concentration so that you produce the best of results.