Don't let Christmas be a pain ...

Guest beds may not be as comfortable as your bed at home …

Christmas, unfortunately, is a time when people often succumb to back pain.

It’s a leading cause of disability around the world and it’s thought 90% of people suffer from it at least once in their life.

Travel, sleeping in guest beds, and slouching on the sofa may all provoke back pain. Taking a short walk round the block will make you feel better by increasing blood flow and oxygen uptake. Make yourself as comfortable and supported as possible when travelling and take frequent breaks. If you’re a guest in someone’s house, don’t be shy about having a lie-down on someone’s rug, especially if your bed is uncomfortable.

Pay attention when loading the car, carrying suitcases, or setting up the sofa bed. Remember to flex your leg joints and maintain head-neck-back alignment.

Should you find yourself in a tense situation

due to familial disputes, don’t let that tension creep into your musculature. Let go of your shoulders, unclench your jaw, exhale, take a walk … Looking relaxed and in control will help you feel that way too.

Re-examine habits and traditions to ensure you’re doing things that work for you. If this year you find you’re doing too much rushing around, resolve to talk things through and come up with a better plan for next year.

Enjoy the break and remember that what you do between New Year and Christmas is what really counts!