Click to view the profile of Dr Tony JewellBack pain is a big problem for Wales. There is a cost to individuals, which can include physical and mental ill health and unemployment, and there is a wider financial cost to the economy in Wales.
Back pain has a significant impact on the workplace and this section provides you with advice and support to help you to manage back pain in the workplace.
Staying at work is a good way for someone with back pain to stay active and carry on as they normally would. A worker does not necessarily need to be pain free before returning to work.
You can help your employee stay at work with back pain by understanding that there may be tasks that are more difficult for them. Think about how their job could be modified to ease the burden, but at the same time enabling them to carry on working. Remember, most people make a full recovery from back pain and will soon be able to return to full duties.
For free and impartial advice about managing back pain in the workplace contact Work Boost Wales on 0845 609 6006 or visit www.workboostwales.org.uk
HSE also provide information about managing back pain in the workplace on their website www.hse.gov.uk/msd/backpain/
Backcare UK also offer advice on what to do if back pain is affecting you at work www.backcare.org.uk
Click to view the profile of Dr Tony Jewell