What can cause back pain?

The resulting pain of a back injury can develop gradually as the result of cumulative ‘microtraumas’ in repetitive work, or be the subject of a single traumatic event.

There are many causes of back pain. You are usually aware when you are straining your back, or otherwise abusing it.

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) says that back pain is more common in tasks that involve:

• lifting heavy or bulky loads
• carrying loads awkwardly, possibly one handed
• repetitive tasks, packing of products
• long distance driving or driving over rough ground, particularly if the seat is not, or cannot be, properly adjusted
• stooping, bending or crouching, including work at computers (poor posture)
• pushing, pulling or dragging heavy loads
• working beyond normal abilities and limits
• working when physically tired
• stretching, twisting and reaching
• prolonged periods in one position

If you have to lift or carry heavy or awkward loads, you should receive training on how to do it without causing damage to your body.