FOR those who suffer with back pain, the thought of exercising may send a shiver down your spine.

But contrary to what you might think, exercise is actually the best thing for it.

If untreated, chronic Low Back Pain (LBP) can be severely debilitating and have an enormous impact on the economy and the workplace as a result of disability.

Data suggests that 46 per cent of women and 48 per cent of men reported back pain at some time in the last 12 months and also that 80 per cent of the population will suffer from back pain at some time during their lives.

To mark World Spine Day, which takes place today, a consultant physiotherapist from Bolton is keen to make sure people are taking care of their back health.

Dr Sue Greenhalgh, who works for Bolton One's orthopaedic elective care team, said: "One of the best things to do to keep a healthy back is to stay active. A lot of people might be tempted to treat it with rest, but this is not the case — this will slow down the rate of healing.

"Very few are serious cases and have to have surgery. You can take simple pain killers such as ibuprofen or paracetamol if the pain gets too much. If you continue to be active you can expect it to get better within about four to six weeks. If it doesn't, then go to your doctor."

The Health & Safety Executive included back pain in its document entitled Musculoskeletal Disorders in Great Britain 2014, which highlights the effect that back pain has on the population and the workplace.

In the UK, it is estimated that 12.5 per cent of all sick days are attributable to back pain equating to a loss of around 2.8 million working days.

Dr Greenhalgh said: "Your back does not do well with certain postures and it is important to be aware of how you sit at your desk at work, for example. You should sit up as straight as you can, with your feet on the floor and your elbows should be bent at 90 degree angle.

"Also make sure your workstation is ergonomically correct — your chair is in the right position for your back and your screen is at the right distance and height. The pressure of your back is 10 times greater when you're sat down than when you're standing.

"The best exercise you can have is to go for a walk. Just try and pop out on your break. It will help keep your body fit and strong. If you can't do that, find ways to move about regularly — even if it's just getting up to make a cuppa."

Dr Greenhalgh says it is important that Bolton keeps on the move.

She said: "We are in an age of ipads, phones and the computers and it's important that we all do what we can to move more. If you want to build back strength, cardio, yoga, Pilates and going to the gym are good, as is swimming. Physio can help with more specific exercises.

"Smoking is also something that increases the risk of back pain, which is something that not many people know. Another thing is being tall. Short people are less likely to suffer with their backs.

"For the few people whose back pain is more serious, seek help from your GP."