A new service, launched locally by The Hampshire Clinic in Basingstoke, could reduce the number of sick days that employees take off.

A survey by The Confederation of British Industry (CBI) found that an average of 6.5 days were lost per worker in the south east last year due to sickness. With a workforce of nearly 5 million , it is estimated sickness accounts for a loss of over 31 million days in total for the region per year. Together with the rest of Britain, the cost to the economy overall is said to be over £13 billion in the UK . An estimated £5 billion of that is linked to back pain, one of the most common causes of sick leave.

The Hampshire Clinic has launched SpineCare, a ‘one-stop-shop’ for back pain, neck pain and sciatica with Mr A Quaile and Mr R Harker. SpineCare is an assessment that takes one day and can provide the patients with a diagnosis as well as a recommendation and advice on treatment – all on the same day.

Mr Quaile, Consultant Spinal Surgeon comments,

Back pain is caused by a number of things and takes on many different forms. It can have a devastating effect on an individual both physically and psychologically. It is essential to stop the pain before it becomes chronic and get the patient fit before it has serious economic, physiological and social effects on their life. In the majority of cases, back pain comes on suddenly and is most likely to be the result of a sprain or minor problem with a disk or joint. Nerve root pain is far less common than simple back pain (occurring in less than one in twenty cases) and means that a nerve coming from the spinal cord is irritated or pressed on and in extreme cases an operation may be necessary. It is crucial that all back pain is taken seriously and a diagnosis obtained as quickly as possible. Only 5% of patients end up with surgery.

Jan Hale, Hospital Director, also added:

We have developed this service to offer fast, accurate diagnosis and treatment on the same day which means employees don’t have to take time of work for multiple hospital attendances

For more information or to book an appointment, please ring 01256 357111or visit the SpineCare website.