Managing Back & Neck Pain at Work? Discover Cornwall’s WorkWell Support

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Back and neck pain are among the most common reasons people miss work in the UK—accounting for nearly 18% of all sick days. With many workers taking an average of 12 days off a year due to these issues, it's clear that timely support makes all the difference. StatistaSHP OnlineBritish Chiropractic Association

What is WorkWell?
If you're in Cornwall or the Isles of Scilly and a health issue is affecting your ability to work—whether you're currently employed or recently off—WorkWell offers free, tailored coaching to help you stay in work or get back on your feet. All you need is to be over 16, eligible to work in the UK, and have a health-related barrier or diagnosis. Age UK

How to Access Support
You can refer yourself by:

• Calling 01872 266383
• Emailing WorkWell@Kernowgateway.org.uk
• Completing the online form via the Voluntary Sector Forum
  Support remains confidential unless you choose to involve your employer. Age UK+1

Why It Matters: The Rising Burden of Back & Neck Pain at Work

• In the UK, musculoskeletal (MSK) issues account for nearly 18% of working days lost due to sickness absence. Statista
• A British Chiropractic Association (BCA) report states that almost one-third of people have taken at least one day off in the past year due to back or neck pain, averaging 12 days off per year. SHP Online
• In 2024, about 73% of Brits experience daily back pain. Nearly 22% have taken up to 5 months off work due to bone or joint pain, and over half have lived with it for longer than 12 months. British Chiropractic Association
• Going further back, ONS figures show around 31 million workdays lost annually due to back, neck, and muscle problems. BBC

These numbers show how common and costly MSK conditions are—for individuals, employers, and the economy.

How Chiropractic Care Helps People Return to Work

What Does Evidence Say?

• UK BEAM Trial (BMJ): Spinal manipulation (like chiropractic) plus exercise provided additional improvements in pain and function at 3 and 12 months (compared to best primary care alone). It was also cost-effective.rcc-uk.org
• Reviews from the Royal College of Chiropractors and independent researchers found moderate to strong evidence that spinal manipulation is effective—especially when combined with exercise—for chronic low back pain.rcc-uk.org
• Patient satisfaction is high, and combining chiropractic care with physical activity yields better long-term outcomes. TIMEThe TimesVerywell Health

Important Considerations

Chiropractic care is generally safe when performed by trained, registered professionals, but there are rare risks. These risks underscore the importance of a cautious and well-assessed approach, which is why finding a chiropractor who is registered with the GCC and takes an evidence led approach to care is important.

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Next Steps
If you're struggling with MSK pain affecting your work—or you’re an employer wanting to support staff—WorkWell is here for you. Reach out today and take a step toward a healthier, more sustainable work life.

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