There are some basic steps you can take to help ease or prevent painful symptoms and improve your overall health.

A physiotherapist will be able to advise you about specific injuries, conditions and your overall level of health. Some general self-help advice is discussed below.

Regular exercise

For most people, keeping mobile and active can help reduce pain and stiffness in joints and speed up recovery. Taking regular exercise is therefore important.

Ask your GP or physiotherapist for advice before starting a new exercise programme if you haven't exercised for a while due to injury or illness.

Good posture

Maintaining good posture will help prevent aches and pains. Make sure your computer workstation and driving position are set up correctly for your height, and change positions regularly.

Read more about how to sit correctly. The back pain guide also provides advice about how to prevent back pain while driving.

Your physiotherapist will be able to give you advice about carrying out repetitive or strenuous tasks. Activities such as yoga and pilates (exercises that strengthen core abdominal muscles) can help you relax and become more aware of your body, as well as improve your posture.

Healthy weight

Keeping to a healthy weight for your height and build helps avoid placing excess pressure on your joints. This can prevent conditions such as osteoporosis developing, where the bones become thin, weak and susceptible to fracture.

Use the BMI healthy weight calculator to find out what your body mass index (BMI) is, and read more about how to lose weight if you're overweight.