I’m a physio – these are the four everyday positions hurting your back and how you can help them

A TOP physiotherapist has revealed four everyday positions that could lead to back pain agony.

Chartered physiotherapist Sammy Margo said the postures could lead to complicated back problems in the future.

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Ms Margo says sitting forward and hunching over the wheel can be bad for your back (stock image)[/caption]

Hunched over steering wheel

Ms Margo told the MailOnline that being hunched over a steering wheel could have a negative impact on spinal health.

She said: “To protect your spine when driving, make sure hips are back in the seat, and knees just slightly lower than hips.”

Ms Margo explained that eye level should be above the steering wheel and the seat should be leaning back slightly.

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The physiotherapist warned that the wrong posture while working was also bad for the spine (stock image)[/caption]

Slumped at desk

Ms Margo told the Mail that the boom in home working meant many Brits did not have an adequate desk setup.

Ms Margo said: “Aim to sit with your ear, shoulder, and hip in line, with shoulders rested.”

She advised workers to sit with their bum against the back of a chair and feet flat on the floor and screen right in front at eye level.

Ms Margo also recommended regular breaks away from the desk.

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Persistent staring down at a mobile phone could also lead to back problems (stock image)[/caption]

Staring down at phone

Ms Margo identified a condition known as ‘tech-neck’ which results from staring down at a mobile phone or similar device.

She said: “When standing, aim to have your ear, shoulder, hip, and ankle in line.”

Ms Margo also advised against checking a mobile phone while walking. She also advised on sitting down and looking at the screen when it was at eye level.

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Ms Margo warned against falling asleep on the sofa at the end of the day (stock image)[/caption]

Falling asleep on sofa

Ms Margo warned against falling asleep on the sofa after a hard day at work.

She told the Mail that this could leave the back and spine in an unnatural position.

She said that the best sleeping position was on the side, which supported the natural curve of the spine.

Back pain

She advised anyone suffering from back pain to identify the right treatment as soon as possible.

She said: “This could be the difference between living with chronic pain for years and ageing with a supple, healthy spine that allows you to keep enjoying all the activities that you love.”

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Sammy Margo advised anyone with back ache to seek treatment as soon as possible[/caption]