Exercise and sleep are top activities impacted by regular physical pain

10 July 2023 , 11:31

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Over half of Brits suffer from regular physical pain, like back pain (Image: Tom Merton/Getty Images)

Exercising, sitting on the floor, and even movement in general, are some of the top everyday activities many Brits struggle to do – due to being in constant physical pain, a study has found.

Over half of adults (52%) claim they suffer regular physical pain – with almost a third (30%) of those struggling to sleep as a result.

An average of three nights of sleep is lost every week for the “typical” pain sufferer – with back troubles, irritable bowel syndrome, and arthritis among the top afflictions that plague them.

The poll of 2,000 adults found that other activities impacted by their discomfort include getting up off the sofa (20%), or walking up the stairs (23%).

And long car journeys, or even having a soak in the bath, can also feel like a major undertaking for pain sufferers.

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Gareth Lucy, spokesman for hygiene and health company Essity, which commissioned the research, said: “It is staggering how many people feel unable to do everyday tasks, such as climbing the stairs or even walking, due to the pain they are experiencing.

“Our research revealed 18 different kinds of activities – some relatively stationary, such as reading or watching TV – which can be difficult for some.

“We were keen to highlight these issues to help raise awareness, and develop a level of understanding from those that might not realise what others are going through.”

The research found 44% per cent of those with a condition, such as diabetes or peri-menopause, are affected daily.

But 56% admit they would rather not talk to others about their physical condition – with a fifth of those in employment refusing to let on to the boss or colleagues.

Saying “I’m fine” to others, even when the opposite might be true, is a common occurrence for 86% of sufferers.

Key reasons for remaining tight-lipped include wanting to forget about things as much as possible (45%), being thought of as incapable (41%), and being treated differently (38%).

But others simply don’t want to be thought of as old (34%), or be judged (32%).

Gareth Lucy, for Essity, added: “Everybody has a part to play. Those struggling with painful or debilitating conditions should know that help is out there, and they should feel confident enough to speak to a healthcare professional who can advise them on the right products and treatment.

“And for those fortunate enough not to live with a condition like this, we need to work to ensure places of work are equitable and inclusive, where there is understanding and support for those that need it.”

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TOP 18 ACTIVITIES THOSE WITH A PHYSICAL CONDITION STRUGGLE TO DO:

1. Exercise
2. Sleep
3. Long journeys
4. Sit on the floor
5. Walk up the stairs
6. Movement in general
7. Get up off the sofa
8. Be away from home for long periods of time
9. Attend long meetings
10. Have a bath
11. Ride a bike
12. Socialise
13. Go to work
14. Drive
15. Talk to others
16. Eat
17. Watch TV
18. Read

Martin Winter