SGBP Final 4

comfort as the cushioning materials and/or foam or innerspring core gradually
compress and lose their ability to recover height.

Though there is no set time to replace a mattress, it is generally recommended that a
mattress that is used daily be replaced every 8 to 10 years. (A mattress that feels
uncomfortable should be replaced regardless of its age). The type of mattress, the
quality of the construction and the materials used affects the life of the mattress. The
heavier you are, the more quickly the mattress will wear out.

Return to work gradually

Obviously you will not be fully fit when you return to work. There may still be mild to
moderate back pain which you are now able to tolerate. Your age, general health, the
type of work you do and perceptions of safe limits of sitting, standing, walking or lifting
can help provide reasonable starting points for activity recommendations. The table
below gives details of return to work guidelines.

Activity level

Expected return to unmodified work

Mild low

back pain

Severe low back

pain Sciatica^

Light work – Mostly sitting,

occasional standing and

walking, light lifting

No need to stay

away from

work

1 – 3 days rest 2 –^ rest5 days

Medium work – Standing,

sitting and walking for equal

intervals; occasional bending,

twisting or stooping; moderate

weight lifting

No need to stay

away from

work

14 – 17 days rest 21 days rest

Heavy work – Constant

standing or walking; frequent

bending, twisting or stooping;

heavy lifting; driving car, light

truck or heavy vehicle or

equipment all day

7 – 10 days rest 35 days rest 35 days rest