Back pain is the number one widespread ailment: around 85 percent of Germans suffer from it, with 12.5 percent even suffering from chronic back pain. What can sufferers do?

How does back pain develop in the first place?
The biggest problem is sitting. Sitting causes the muscles to slacken. Over time, the intervertebral discs are compressed and squeezed towards the spinal canal. Over the years, this leads to bulging discs, where swollen tissue presses on the nerves and causes severe pain.

Do we actually operate too often in Germany?
Yes, surgery is by no means always necessary. Nowadays, there are many more advanced and gentler procedures that relieve back pain. However, not every doctor is familiar with these forms of therapy. As a general rule, a second opinion should be sought before any decision is made on open surgery on the spine.

Which is worse for the back: standing or sitting?
Both are equally bad. Sitting for long periods increases the risk of premature musculoskeletal disorders. Standing for long periods, heavy lifting and one-sided activities also put strain on the back. For example, daily standing for sales clerks and a constantly stooped posture for educators can have a negative impact on back health.

So how can we prevent these complaints?
The magic word is exercise, because prevention is much easier than relieving back pain once it's there. Even climbing stairs or cycling strengthens the muscles and gets the intervertebral discs moving again.