We’ve got your back!

A staggering 80% of adults experience back pain at some point in their lives which is why Back Care Awareness Week is so important ^[1]. Organised by the charity Back Care, the week runs from 3rd October to 7th October and aims to raise awareness of the problems back pain can cause. It also looks to provide information on prevention and available treatments^[2].

What causes back pain?

Back pain is common, with around one in three of us getting it every year. The pain can come from damaged bones, joints, muscles, ligaments, nerves or tendons. Back pain may come on suddenly or the pain may come on over time due to poor posture^[3].

Back pain usually affects the lower back - the area from the bottom of your ribs to the top of your legs. It's also possible to get upper back pain, where the pain strikes between your shoulder blades or the area between your neck and your waist.

It's little wonder that many electrical contractors suffer from back pain. On a typical working day, electricians put their backs under great strain. From lifting heavy equipment to working at awkward angles, it's no surprise many electricians complain of back aches. And office-based staff are not immune from back issues. Sitting at a computer all day can also take its toll on your back.

Back pain can be a dull ache that stops you from performing to the best of your abilities. In more serious circumstances, it can leave you in constant pain and unable to work. When back pain strikes, you want to find lasting relief as soon as possible.

Treating back problems

Although back pain can be very distressing, for most people, the pain does not represent a serious medical condition. You may not need to seek medical help from a health professional for lower back pain. Keeping active will help you to recover faster from back pain. Too much rest can stiffen your joints and weaken your muscles. Ice packs applied to the affected area can help reduce pain and swelling, while heat packs can relieve joint stiffness or muscle spasms^[3].

Most people find their lower back pain improves with this kind of self-help within a few weeks. But if your back pain is significantly affecting your daily activities, then it is time to seek medical advice.

How ECIS can help keep your team moving

The ECIS Private Medical Insurance (PMI) Scheme is there to support members suffering from back pain. Musculoskeletal issues like back pain account for the highest proportion of claims spend than any other issue on the scheme.

Our PMI scheme includes services to get members back to work as soon as possible. Members will typically benefit from increased medical resources such as the BUPA Direct Access Service. This service enables members to be triaged directly by a physiotherapist with only a simple phone call. The scheme also provides a range of specialist treatments, helping your staff get back on their feet and back to work quicker.

If you don't have a PMI scheme or if you have a PMI renewal approaching, ECIS can help you find the right option for you. Contact us at ecis@ecins.co.uk or call us on 0330 221 0241.

Sources

[1] https://www.theregenerativeclinic.co.uk/news/80-uk-adults-experience-back-pain/

[2] https://backcare.org.uk/

[3] https://www.bupa.co.uk/health-information/back-care