Self help and support
QI am 47 and have had back pain on and off for years. I had a bad episode in my twenties, which I was told was sciatica. In general I have learned how to manage things and usually get better after a week or so, but recently things have worsened, and it seems to be affecting me more of the time.
Can you recommend any self-help or user based organisations where I might seek mutual support, advice and other facilities for people with back pain?
Yes, but I would also suggest you do also see your doctor in view of the recent change in symptoms.
In the UK BackCare is an excellent charity which does all the things you mention as well as research and influencing politicians and the medical profession. They provide a telephone help line and a monthly magazine, as well as local groups who arrange activities and provide local services for sufferers.