Showing posts with label pain. Show all posts
Showing posts with label pain. Show all posts

Monday, 2 March 2026

Grünenthal takes full ownership of Grünenthal Meds, the joint venture established with Kyowa Kirin for its established medicines brands

Grünenthal today announced it has acquired Kyowa Kirin International’s 49% stake in ‘Grünenthal Meds’, taking full ownership of the company formed via a joint venture and its portfolio of established medicines.

‘Grünenthal Meds’ was created in 2023 as a joint venture between Grünenthal (51%) and Kyowa Kirin International (49%), the EMEA business of the Japanese-based global specialty pharmaceutical company. 

Over the past three years, the joint venture operated as a separate entity with eight affiliates, managing a growing €170 million portfolio of 12 established brands across six therapeutic areas and more than 60 markets. 

Key products included Abstral® and PecFent® (Fentanyl) for breakthrough cancer pain, Moventig® (Naloxegol) for opioid-induced constipation and Adcal-D3® (calcium and vitamin D3) for osteoporosis.

“Thanks to the outstanding expertise and commitment of our teams in Grünenthal and Grünenthal Meds, we were able to manage this complex portfolio across regions, generate growth, and create synergies with our infrastructure – all while executing a staggered integration approach,” said Gabriel Baertschi, CEO of Grünenthal told That's Health.

“The integration of ‘Grünenthal Meds’ confirms our leading capabilities in deal execution and integration and successfully concludes one of the most complex undertakings of our M&A journey, which stretched far beyond a merger or asset deal.”

The ongoing integration of ‘Grünenthal Meds’ includes the transfer of over 200 marketing authorisations, approximately 150 product-country combinations, and several tech transfers in close alignment with a broad landscape of partners and contract manufacturing organisations. 

Grünenthal expects to complete the integration by June 2026. At this point, Grünenthal will commercialise the ‘Grünenthal Meds’ portfolio through Grünenthal affiliates in major European markets and via international partners in additional territories.

The acquisition of ‘Grünenthal Meds’ is based on an option agreed with Kyowa Kirin International at the beginning of the joint venture collaboration. The transaction supports Grünenthal’s long-term growth strategy. Since 2017, Grünenthal has closed successful acquisitions with a total expected deal value of more than €2.3 billion, strengthening and diversifying its portfolio while leveraging synergies across manufacturing, supply chain, logistics, and commercial operations.

Grünenthal is a global leader in pain management and related diseases. As a science-based, fully integrated pharmaceutical company, they have a long track record of bringing innovative treatments and state-of-the-art technologies to patients worldwide. Their purpose is to change lives for the better – and innovation is their passion. They focus their activities and efforts on working towards their vision of a World Free of Pain.

Grünenthal is headquartered in Aachen, Germany, and has affiliates in 28 countries across Europe, Latin America, and the U.S. Their products are available in  some 100 countries. 

In 2024, Grünenthal employed around 4,300 people and achieved revenues of €1.8 billion.

More information: www.grunenthal.com

Friday, 20 February 2026

Grünenthal’s proprietary NaV 1.8 inhibitor enters clinical development

Grünenthal has announced that the first healthy volunteers have been enrolled in a Phase I trial of its voltage-gated sodium channel (NaV) 1.8 inhibitor. 

The orally administered investigational medicine aims to provide a non-opioid therapy option across a range of acute and chronic pain conditions. Full results of the trial are expected in the second half of this year, 2026.

The Phase I trial will involve 70 healthy volunteers and comprises a Single Ascending Dose and a Multiple Ascending Dose part. It aims to assess the safety and tolerability profile and the pharmacokinetic characteristics of the investigational medicine. In addition, the trial will generate initial insights into the compound’s pharmacology through a cold-pressor test.

“Inhibition of NaV 1.8 offers an exciting opportunity to provide patients with urgently needed non-opioid pain therapies,” Uli Brödl, Chief Scientific Officer, Grünenthal, told That's Health.

 “While we have seen the first medicine targeting NaV 1.8 receive FDA approval last year, we are committed to driving further innovation in this field where advanced assets may provide enhanced patient outcomes by blocking NaV 1.8 more comprehensively.”

About voltage-gated sodium channels (NaV)

There are a total of nine different NaV channels in the human body. The NaV 1.8 channel is a clinically and genetically validated pain target, as the channel plays a significant role in triggering excitatory signals in nociceptive neurons, which the human brain perceives as pain. Blocking the NaV 1.8 channel to suppress or prevent its excitatory signalling will provide a significant analgesic effect across a range of chronic and acute pain conditions.

FACTFILE:

Grünenthal is a global leader in pain management and related diseases. As a science-based, fully integrated pharmaceutical company, they have a long track record of bringing innovative treatments and state-of-the-art technologies to patients worldwide. Their purpose is to change lives for the better – and innovation is their passion. They focus all  their activities and efforts on working towards our vision of a World Free of Pain.

Grünenthal is headquartered in Aachen, Germany, and has affiliates in 28 countries across Europe, Latin America, and the U.S. 

Their products are available in approx. 100 countries. In 2024, Grünenthal employed around 4,300 people and achieved revenues of €1.8 billion.

For more information visit: https://www.grunenthal.com.

Wednesday, 4 February 2026

National Toothache Day: Why Dental Pain Should Never Be Ignored

National Toothache Day is a timely reminder that tooth pain isn’t just an inconvenience — it’s your body waving a red flag. 

Whether it’s a dull throb, a sharp jolt when you sip something cold, or an ache that keeps you awake at night, toothache usually means something needs attention.

What actually causes toothache?

Toothache can stem from a range of issues, including:

Tooth decay or cavities

Gum disease or infection

Cracked or broken teeth

Worn enamel causing sensitivity

Impacted wisdom teeth

Sinus problems that mimic dental pain

Ignoring it rarely makes it go away. In fact, it often gets worse.

The knock-on effects of dental pain

Ongoing toothache can affect far more than your mouth. Many people report:

Poor sleep and fatigue

Difficulty eating properly

Headaches and jaw pain

Reduced concentration and mood

Left untreated, infections in the mouth can spread, leading to more serious health complications.

What you can do right now

If you’re experiencing toothache:

Rinse gently with warm salt water

Avoid very hot, cold, or sugary foods

Use a toothpaste for sensitive teeth

Take appropriate pain relief if needed (as directed)

These steps may help ease discomfort — but they’re not a cure.

When to seek help

If pain lasts more than a day or two, is severe, or comes with swelling, fever, or a bad taste in the mouth, it’s time to seek professional advice. In the UK, your dentist should always be your first port of call, and urgent issues can be assessed via the NHS if needed.

Prevention really is better than cure

National Toothache Day is also a nudge to prioritise prevention:

Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste

Clean between teeth every day

Attend regular dental check-ups

Don’t put off minor problems

A healthy mouth supports overall health — and saves a lot of pain down the line.

Today’s takeaway: toothache is never “just one of those things”. Listen to it, act early, and give your smile the care it deserves.

Monday, 29 December 2025

New UK-Built Pain Reset Planner Helps People With Chronic Back and Nerve Pain Regain Control Without Guesswork

An amazing new digital health tool, the Personalised Pain Reset Planner, is launching in the UK with a clear mission: to help people living with chronic back and nerve pain regain structure, clarity, and control after traditional treatments fall short.

Designed for individuals who are dealing with conditions likes disc bulges, sciatica, and persistent nerve pain, the planner takes a different approach from conventional pain solutions. 

Rather than offering isolated exercises, medications, or one-size-fits-all routines, it focuses on identifying pain patterns over time, tracking flare triggers, movement tolerance, inflammation load, sleep quality, and recovery signals.

The system is bundled with an Anti-Inflammatory Lifestyle Blueprint, addressing often-overlooked contributors to chronic pain such as stress, poor sleep timing, inconsistent habits, and recovery debt.

“Most people aren’t failing at recovery,” the creator of the Pain Reset Planner told That's Health. “They’re just guessing. Pain doesn’t exist in isolation, it’s actually shaped by patterns. When people finally see those patterns clearly, everything changes.”

The planner was created after observing a recurring theme among chronic pain sufferers: repeated misdiagnoses, short-term relief from medication, and fragmented advice that never connected the dots. By providing daily and weekly structure, the tool helps users move from reactive pain management to proactive self-management.

Unlike many pain products, the Pain Reset Planner makes no promises of instant cures. Instead, it positions itself as a long-term companion—one that evolves with the user and adapts to their real-life limitations.

Early users report improved confidence, better understanding of their flare triggers, and reduced fear around movement, often within days of consistent use.

The Personalised Pain Reset Planner and Anti-Inflammatory Lifestyle Blueprint are now available online, with an introductory launch price available for a limited time.

https://painkillers.uk

Tuesday, 14 October 2025

Standing Tall for World Spine Day: Why Your Back Deserves More Care

Every year on 16th October, people across the globe mark World Spine Day, an international awareness day dedicated to spinal health and wellbeing. 

With back pain now one of the most common causes of disability worldwide, this day is a reminder to look after the backbone of our bodies. Literally.

Why Spine Health Matters

The spine is a remarkable structure, supporting the weight of the body, protecting our vital spinal cord, and allowing us to move freely. 

Yet, many of us only start paying attention to it when something goes wrong. Perhaps a twinge while lifting shopping bags, stiffness from sitting too long at a desk, or pain that radiates down the legs.

In the UK, back pain affects around 80% of adults at some point in their lives, and is one of the leading causes of time off work. Poor posture, lack of movement, stress, and unsuitable mattresses or chairs all contribute to the problem.

This Year’s Theme: Move Your Spine

The theme for World Spine Day 2025 is “Move Your Spine” encouraging people to stay active and engage in safe, regular movement to maintain spinal health. Whether it’s stretching, walking, swimming, or practising yoga, gentle movement keeps the muscles around the spine strong and flexible.

Sitting for long periods — something many of us do while working or watching television — can place huge strain on the lower back. Even short breaks to stand, stretch, and walk around can make a big difference.

Everyday Habits for a Healthier Back

Here are a few simple but effective ways to support your spine:

Mind your posture: Keep your shoulders back, chin level, and avoid slouching.

Lift safely: Bend your knees, not your back, when lifting heavy items.

Stay active: Regular low-impact exercise such as walking or swimming strengthens core muscles.

Invest in ergonomics: Use a supportive chair and make sure your computer screen is at eye level.

Sleep smart: Choose a mattress that supports your spine’s natural curve.

Mind your weight: Carrying extra weight, especially around the midsection, can strain your spine.

When to Seek Help

Persistent back pain should never be ignored. If pain lasts more than a few weeks, is severe, or radiates into your legs or arms, it’s important to seek advice from a GP or a qualified physiotherapist. Early intervention can prevent minor problems from becoming chronic.

For UK readers, we can find professional support from:

Chartered Society of Physiotherapy (CSP): www.csp.org.uk

British Chiropractic Association (BCA): www.chiropractic-uk.co.uk

NHS Back Pain Support: www.nhs.uk/conditions/back-pain

Final Back Thoughts

Your spine supports you every single day, so give it a little attention in return. This World Spine Day, take a moment to stretch, adjust your posture, or simply get moving. Small changes can make a big difference to your comfort, mobility, and long-term health.

Let’s all stand tall for spinal health. Today and every day!

Wednesday, 1 October 2025

The Most Painful Health Conditions: From Excruciating to Manageable

Discover the most painful health conditions ranked from severe to moderate. Learn about symptoms, intensity, and when to seek medical attention.

Pain is one of the most universal human experiences, but not all pain is equal. Some health conditions cause extreme, almost unbearable suffering, while others are uncomfortable but manageable. 

Understanding which conditions are typically the most painful can help you recognise symptoms early, empathise with sufferers, and seek proper care.

Extremely Severe Pain

1. Cluster Headaches

Known as “suicide headaches,” cluster headaches are sudden, excruciating attacks around one eye, often waking sufferers from sleep. They are considered one of the most intense pains known to humans.

2. Trigeminal Neuralgia

This nerve condition produces electric-shock-like facial pain, usually on one side of the face. Episodes can last seconds but are often repeated multiple times a day.

3. Kidney Stones

Kidney stones cause sharp, cramping pain as they move through the urinary tract, radiating from the back or flank to the groin. Passing a stone is often described as agonising.

4. Childbirth Complications

While childbirth is a natural process, complications such as obstructed labour without pain relief can result in extreme, prolonged pain.

5. Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS)

CRPS is chronic and usually develops after an injury or surgery, causing burning, stabbing pain and heightened sensitivity in the affected limb.

Severe but Intermittent or Localised Pain

6. Gallstones (Biliary Colic)

Gallstones can trigger sudden, sharp upper abdominal pain, often after fatty meals.

7. Migraines with Aura

Migraines are more than headaches—they bring severe throbbing pain, nausea, and visual disturbances.

8. Acute Pancreatitis

Inflammation of the pancreas leads to intense upper abdominal pain that radiates to the back.

9. Severe Burns (2nd and 3rd Degree)

Pain from burns is severe during injury and throughout the healing process, especially during dressing changes.

10. Shingles (Herpes Zoster)

Shingles produce a painful, blistering rash, sometimes leading to postherpetic neuralgia—long-lasting nerve pain.

🟡 Moderate but Persistent Pain

11. Tooth Abscess

Dental abscesses can cause throbbing, intense pain, often disrupting sleep and daily activities.

12. Appendicitis

Sharp abdominal pain from appendicitis requires urgent medical attention. Pain often worsens quickly if untreated.

13. Endometriosis

This condition causes chronic pelvic pain in those affected, sometimes severely impacting daily life.

14. Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is a chronic disorder causing widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, and sensitivity to touch.

15. Arthritis (Osteoarthritis or Rheumatoid Arthritis)

Arthritis causes joint pain ranging from mild stiffness to severe discomfort limiting movement.

🟢 Less Severe but Distressing Pain

16. Severe Sinus Infection (Sinusitis)

Sinus infections cause facial and forehead pressure, headaches, and overall discomfort.

17. Ear Infection (Otitis Media)

Throbbing ear pain is common, especially in children, and can be intense during infection.

18. Tension Headaches

Tension headaches produce dull, persistent pain, often affecting productivity but usually manageable.

19. Muscle Strain or Back Spasms

Strains can cause sharp or throbbing pain, usually improving with rest, physiotherapy, or medication.

20. Sprains (e.g., Ankle Sprain)

Sprains are painful but typically heal well with proper care and rehabilitation.

Final Painful Thoughts

Pain is highly subjective. Even the same condition can feel different for each person. Understanding the most painful health conditions helps us empathise, identify warning signs early, and seek timely treatment.

Pro Tip: If you or someone you know experiences severe or sudden pain, always consult a medical professional promptly—especially for conditions like kidney stones, appendicitis, or unexplained severe headaches.

Monday, 4 August 2025

When Shingles Leaves More Than Scars: Understanding Excessive Sweating After Nerve Damage

Can shingles cause excessive sweating on the head or face? Learn how post-shingles nerve damage can lead to abnormal sweating and what treatment options are available.

Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, is a painful viral condition caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus responsible for chickenpox. 

Most people associate shingles with a blistering rash and sharp nerve pain, but some are surprised to find that sweating changes, particularly excessive sweating on the head or face, can also occur.

So what’s going on? Can shingles really lead to such a strange and uncomfortable symptom?

Shingles and Nerve Damage: More Than Skin Deep

Shingles tends to affect sensory nerves, causing a painful rash in a specific area of the body—usually limited to one side. However, the virus can also impact autonomic nerves, which control involuntary functions like blood pressure, digestion… and sweating.

When shingles affects areas like the face, head, or neck, the damage can disrupt normal sweating patterns. The nerves that usually regulate temperature and sweat production can begin misfiring, leading to excessive or abnormal sweating, even without heat or exertion.

Why Excessive Sweating Happens

This type of symptom is a form of autonomic dysfunction. It may happen because:

Damaged nerve fibres are sending the wrong signals to sweat glands.

The body is trying to "compensate" for reduced sweating elsewhere.

There’s cross-talk between nerves that previously had separate roles (a bit like crossed wires after an electrical fault).

In some cases, people develop a condition known as Frey’s syndrome, a type of gustatory sweating triggered by eating, but other times, the sweating is random, excessive, and unrelated to meals.

Is This Dangerous?

While not life-threatening, excessive facial or scalp sweating can be:

Embarrassing in social settings

Uncomfortable during daily activities

A clue that your nervous system is still under strain following shingles

This symptom can occur alongside other long-term effects of shingles such as:

Post-herpetic neuralgia (nerve pain that lingers after the rash has healed)

Itching, tingling, or burning

Numbness or altered sensation

What You Can Do About It

If you're experiencing excessive sweating following shingles, it’s wise to speak to your GP or a neurologist. You may be offered one of the following treatments:

Topical treatments – Clinical-strength antiperspirants or creams like glycopyrrolate

Botox injections – Can reduce sweating for several months by blocking nerve signals

Oral medications – Anticholinergics may help, though they come with side effects like dry mouth

 Pain management – If you also have nerve pain, medications like gabapentin or pregabalin might help regulate nerve activity overall

Self-Care Tips

Use absorbent headbands or face cloths discreetly during flare-ups

Stay cool indoors with fans or cooling towels

Avoid hot or spicy foods, which can trigger sweating episodes

Keep a symptom diary to track patterns and triggers

Shingles can leave a lasting impact on the body, but excessive sweating on the head or face doesn’t have to be something you live with in silence. With the right support and treatment, you can manage the symptoms and regain control over your comfort and confidence.

If you're struggling with post-shingles symptoms, don’t hesitate to seek medical advice—your experience is valid, and help is available.

Have you experienced unusual symptoms after a bout of shingles? Share your story in the comments below or get in touch—we'd love to hear from you.

Thursday, 4 April 2024

Mastering Migraines: A Holistic Approach to Managing Your Headaches

Migraines can be incredibly debilitating, affecting millions of people across the globe. The throbbing pain, sensitivity to light and sound, and nausea can disrupt daily life, making it challenging to work, socialize, or even perform basic tasks. 

However, there are strategies you can employ to take control of your migraines and minimise their impact on your life. 

In this blog post, we'll explore holistic approaches to mastering your migraines, from identifying triggers to implementing lifestyle changes and seeking professional help.

Understanding Your Triggers

One of the first steps in mastering your migraines is to identify your triggers. Triggers can vary greatly from person to person but may include certain foods, hormonal changes, stress, dehydration, lack of sleep, or environmental factors such as bright lights or strong odors. 

Keeping a migraine diary can help you track patterns and identify what factors might be contributing to your headaches. Once you've identified your triggers, you can take proactive steps to avoid or minimise exposure to them.

Prioritise Stress Management

Stress is a common trigger for migraines, so finding ways to manage stress levels is crucial. Incorporate relaxation techniques such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, or yoga into your daily routine. Regular exercise can also help reduce stress and release tension, but be mindful not to overexert yourself, as intense physical activity can sometimes trigger migraines in susceptible individuals. Additionally, ensure you're getting enough sleep each night, as fatigue can exacerbate stress and trigger headaches.

Adopt a More Healthy Lifestyle

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can play a significant role in managing migraines. This includes eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, while avoiding trigger foods such as processed meats, aged cheeses, chocolate, and alcohol. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day, as dehydration can contribute to headaches. Limit your intake of caffeine, as both excessive consumption and sudden withdrawal can trigger migraines in some individuals.

Establish Consistent Habits

Consistency is key when it comes to managing migraines. Try to establish regular sleeping patterns by going to bed and waking up at the same time each day, even on weekends. Avoid skipping meals, as low blood sugar levels can trigger headaches. Make time for relaxation and self-care activities, whether it's reading a book, taking a bath, or spending time outdoors. By prioritizing self-care and maintaining consistent habits, you can help reduce the frequency and severity of your migraines.

Seek Professional Help

If you're struggling to manage your migraines on your own, don't hesitate to seek professional help. Your doctor may recommend medications to help prevent migraines or alleviate symptoms when they occur. They can also provide guidance on managing underlying health conditions that may be contributing to your headaches. Additionally, consider seeking support from a migraine specialist or joining a support group to connect with others who are facing similar challenges.

In Conclusion

While migraines can be incredibly challenging to deal with, they don't have to control your life. By taking a holistic approach to managing your migraines, including identifying triggers, prioritizing stress management, adopting a healthy lifestyle, establishing consistent habits, and seeking professional help when needed, you can regain control and reduce the impact of migraines on your daily life. Remember, everyone's experience with migraines is unique, so be patient and persistent as you explore what works best for you. With dedication and perseverance, you can master your migraines and live a happier, healthier life.

Thursday, 21 March 2024

Understanding Shingles: Symptoms, Complications, and Treatment

Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, is a viral infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox. 

While chickenpox is often associated with childhood, the varicella-zoster virus can lie dormant in your nerve tissues for years and resurface later in life as shingles. In this blog post, we will delve into what shingles is like, potential complications, and how it can be treated.

What is Shingles Like?

Shingles typically manifests as a painful rash that develops on one side of the body, often in a band-like pattern. The rash is usually accompanied by itching, tingling, or burning sensations. Before the rash appears, some individuals may experience flu-like symptoms such as fever, headache, and fatigue. 

The rash typically progresses into fluid-filled blisters that crust over within a few weeks. The pain associated with shingles can range from mild to severe and may persist even after the rash has healed, a condition known as postherpetic neuralgia.

Potential Complications:

While shingles itself can be uncomfortable and debilitating, it can also lead to various complications, especially in older adults and individuals with weakened immune systems. Some of the potential complications of shingles include:

Postherpetic Neuralgia: This is the most common complication of shingles, characterized by persistent pain in the affected area long after the rash has healed. The pain can be severe and debilitating, impacting daily activities and quality of life.

Vision Problems: If shingles affects the nerves around the eye, it can lead to complications such as vision loss, glaucoma, or inflammation of the eye.

Neurological Complications: In rare cases, shingles can lead to inflammation of the brain (encephalitis) or spinal cord (myelitis), which can cause neurological problems such as paralysis, weakness, or cognitive impairment.

Skin Infections: The blisters caused by shingles can become infected, leading to complications such as cellulitis or impetigo.

Ramsay Hunt Syndrome: This is a rare complication of shingles that affects the nerves in the face and ear, leading to facial paralysis, hearing loss, and vertigo.

Treatment:

While there is no cure for shingles, prompt treatment can help alleviate symptoms, speed up recovery, and reduce the risk of complications. Treatment options for shingles may include:

Antiviral Medications: These medications, such as acyclovir, valacyclovir, and famciclovir, can help reduce the severity and duration of the shingles rash if started within 72 hours of the rash appearing.

Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen may help alleviate pain associated with shingles. In some cases, prescription medications such as antidepressants, anticonvulsants, or topical numbing agents may be recommended to manage nerve pain.

Antiviral Creams: Applying antiviral creams or ointments directly to the rash can help speed up healing and reduce pain and itching.

Corticosteroids: In some cases, corticosteroid medications may be prescribed to reduce inflammation and pain associated with shingles, especially in older adults or individuals with severe symptoms.

Vaccination: The shingles vaccine, known as Shingrix, is recommended for adults aged 50 and older to prevent shingles and reduce the risk of complications.

Shingles can be a painful and uncomfortable condition, but prompt treatment can help alleviate symptoms and reduce the risk of complications. If you suspect you may have shingles, it's essential to seek medical attention promptly to receive appropriate treatment.

Additionally, getting vaccinated against shingles can help prevent the onset of the disease and reduce its severity in those who do develop it. By understanding the symptoms, complications, and treatment options for shingles, individuals can take proactive steps to protect their health and well-being.

Thursday, 14 April 2011

"Do it yourself" back pain relief could save NHS millions and save you from agony



Low 
Back Pain & Sciatica, by Paul Boxcer
It's a common health condition that affects nearly all of us; from office workers to pregnant women. Low back pain can cause long-term misery if left untreated, but a London physiotherapist is claiming that self diagnosis and treatment is possible and could save the NHS millions of pounds every year.

Statistics show that low back pain affects 17 million people in the UK every year and 80% of Britons will suffer from the condition at some stage in their life. It's estimated that the overall cost of back pain in the UK (including the NHS, business and the economy) stretches to £10 billion each year, with up to five million working days being lost per annum.

Paul Boxcer has spent many years observing the condition, which has enabled him to write a book. "The inception of my unique approach began several years ago," explains Paul. "I was becoming very frustrated at seeing many people suffer needlessly for months or even years on end with low back pain or sciatica believing nothing could be done, when all they needed was the appropriate advice and exercise programme in order for them to cure themselves of the pain they were suffering."

Paul has treated thousands of patients just by educating them on how to effectively manage their pain. "The human body has an innate desire to heal itself of any injury it suffers. With regards to low back pain or sciatica, it is nearly always certain activities or postures we adopt during our day-to-day lives, along with muscle imbalances - either weak and/or tight muscles - which are preventing recovery," advises Paul.

"The best part is that there's no need to wait for a physiotherapy appointment to begin implementing my approach. Everyone can begin treating their back pain straight away and therefore avoid weeks, months or even years of unnecessary suffering."

FACTFILE:

Paul Boxcer qualified as a Chartered Physiotherapist - BSc (Hons) Physiotherapy - in 1997. Since then, he has gained over 13 years of experience treating people suffering with low back pain and sciatica. Before qualifying as a Physiotherapist he spent four and a half years working for a bank in the City of London. Not too keen on spending the rest of his life behind a desk, he decided to spend some time travelling the world before settling down in pursuit of a rewarding career. For more information visit: www.spinal-health-care.com

Low Back Pain & Sciatica is published by Spinal Healthcare in the UK in May 2011. ISBN: 9780956293107, Hardback, RRP: £27.99. Available in all good bookshops.