Mums' back pain linked to baby equipment

A new survey has found that looking after children can often be directly linked to back pain among Britain's mums. Research carried out by Maclaren and BackCare revealed that 83 per cent of mums who suffer from back pain believe their symptoms are a result of taking care of their babies and infants. In addition, the survey discovered that almost three-quarters of mums in the UK associate their back pain with pushing, folding or lifting buggies.

Commenting on the findings, Sash Newman, chief executive of BackCare said: "A pushchair is one of the most important pieces of baby equipment a parent buys – they will be using it constantly for years, not just months.

"If you choose one that has the wrong handle height for you, is too heavy, or is difficult to fold and lift then you could be storing up some real problems for the future."

According to the figures, 84 per cent of women use their pushchairs as much as three times a day.

Regular exercise, correct posture and reducing stress levels can help prevent back pain, Bupa suggests.