Back Care Awareness Week shines a light on importance of massage

Running from October 8 -12, this year’s Back Care Awareness Week aims to raise awareness of back pain in adults aged 60 and over.

The initiative is from the National Back Pain Association, a charity founded in 1968 by businessman Stanley Grundy after he suffered a back injury from an accident.

The organisation now aims to educate the public – back and neck pain has a “significant impact” on more than 80% of the UK population, according to the charity – in ways of preventing and managing the pain.

In the over 60s, while some back pain may be caused by various conditions related with ageing such as arthritis, often it is simply a result of wear and tear and can be alleviated with massage therapy, a mode of treatment the weeklong campaign will aim to highlight.

Practitioners and health and wellness businesses that treat back pain can order a display pack of promotional materials and take-home literature for clients at backcare.org.uk

Bennie’s Spa and Beauty based in Basildon, Essex is taking part by providing a mobile massaging service, making it convenient for those with mobility problems to receive a massage in the comfort of their own home.

"A massage can relieve the pain caused by many back conditions. It can also be a great way to soothe stress and relieve the tension that can result in upper back pain, especially around the shoulders,” said Benedicta Tuffour, director of Bennie's Spa and Beauty.

“It's wonderful to be able to offer this service which helps so many people to take care of their bodies. A regular massage can make a huge difference to their quality of life." 

Watch our video on how therapists can look after their backs and prevent work-related injuries.