In response to recent research showing that keeping physically active is good for a healthy back, the theme chosen for National Back care week this year will be Active Back Care. During the week, BackCare will promote activity and physical exercise as being back-friendly things to do. The Health and Safety Executive are joining forces with BackCare to raise awareness of better back care. The dates of European Week for Safety and Health, which this year focuses on back pain and musculo-skeletal disorders in the workplace, will coincide with BackCare week.

Commenting on the theme of BackCare week 2000, Bruce Sparrow BackCare Week Co-ordinator said "Whether at work or home a healthy back is an active back. rather than spend long periods standing or sitting in one position, it is far better to take regular breaks and to move around. Even if you don't already have back pain, regular exercise or activity strengthens the back and should be encouraged, although, if in doubt, people should get help from qualified professionals".

During Backcare week there will be a national awareness campaign involving various events and activities including sponsored walks, demonstrations of back-friendly exercises talks open days, competitions and other activities organised by BackCare branches nationwide.

In the run up to October, BackCare will work closely with each of the established organisations representing professional physiotherapists, osteopaths, chiropractors and with the Department of Health, the Health & safety Executive and the TUC.  

Emma Tait, Executive Director of BackCare said, "We acknowledge the strong support a wide range of organisations give BackCare Week each year. The social and economic costs of back pain at home and in the workplace are huge. We invite everyone to work with us to reduce the incidence of back pain and the misery it causes by supporting BackCare Week and by using our information and educational materials. Only by working together can we reduce back pain".

For more information: BackCare