Back pain is considered to be the most costly and disabling health condition in the world. However, only 1% of people with back pain have a disc problem.
Dr Ray Walley says a holistic approach should be taken when it comes to treating back pain, which involves looking at factors such as diet, sleep, how you walk, flexibility and body mass index.
Although rest used to be advised as a form of treatment, this is no longer the case. Instead the emphasis is on strengthening your core and muscles and trying to ensure good posture. Stretching exercises and yoga can help, while painkillers should be used sparingly.
Ray joined us for our weekly medical consultation to discuss the issue further.
Listen to the interview in full by pressing the play button on this page.
