A Bad Back Needn't Scupper Your Sex Life - New Study Reveals Tips For Men

With These Tips, Your Bad Back Won't Affect Your Sex Life Again

Guys, if your sex life has taken a turn for the worse following a back injury, don't worry - thanks to a new study, help is at hand.

Now, experts (or should we say 'sexperts') have mapped out the best sex positions for men suffering from back pain.

Researchers found that contrary to popular belief - and probably much to the relief of men everywhere - 'spooning' is not always the best position for those who suffer back ache. Instead 'doggy-style' sex may work better for many couples.

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Scientists at the University of Waterloo in Ontario, Canada, documented precisely how the spine moves during sex.

The researchers analysed information gathered by infrared and electromagnetic motion capture systems which documented how 10 couples moved when attempting five common positions.

They then created a set of guidelines that recommended different positions and "thrusting techniques" based on what triggered a man's back pain.

The findings, published in the journal Spine, included a recommendation for men who were flexion-intolerant - meaning those whose back pain was made worse by touching their toes or sitting for long periods of time - who should replace spooning with doggy-style sex.

They should also try a "hip-hinging motion rather than thrusting with their spines", the authors said.

Lead author Natalie Sidorkewicz said: "Before now, spooning was often recommended by physicians as the one position that fit all. But as we've discovered, that is not the case. Sex positions that are suitable for one type of back pain aren't appropriate for another kind of pain.

"For the first time ever, we now have very solid science to guide clinicians on their recommendations for patients who suffer debilitating back pain, but still want to be intimate.

"This has the potential to improve quality of life - and love-life - for many couples."

Story continues below...

10 Everyday Things Causing You Back Pain
Your bag.(01 of10)
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Throw out all that clutter in your handbag. Get a lighter bag and do it now. (credit:JulNichols via Getty Images)
Your mattress.(02 of10)
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According to spine-health.com, a lack of support from a mattress "reinforces poor sleeping posture, strains muscles and does not help keep the spine in alignment", all of which contribute to back pain. (credit:Image Source via Getty Images)
Your computer.(03 of10)
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If you work in an office and use a computer, you can avoid injury by sitting in the right position and arranging your desk correctly. If you're not sure how you should be sitting, managers should be able to arrange a work station assessment for you. (credit:fatihhoca via Getty Images)
Your shoes.(04 of10)
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High heels arch your back, making your spine work harder. (credit:Tim Bewer via Getty Images)
Your wallet. (05 of10)
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Keeping your wallet in your back pocket (like many men do) can cause back pain.According to everdayhealth.com the habit could lead to pain because sitting on a bulky wallet for long periods of time puts pressure on the muscles lying underneath. (credit:JamieB via Getty Images)
Your exercise regime. (06 of10)
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Or lack of it. According to the NHS, the best way to deal with back pain is to stay active and continue doing regular exercise.Yoga is especially good for those suffering. (credit:GlobalStock via Getty Images)
Your phone.(07 of10)
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Healthcentral.com says: Long periods of cell phone use cause you to arch your neck and hold your body in a strange posture. This can lead to back pain. (credit:Tara Moore via Getty Images)
Your bike.(08 of10)
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According to prevention.com, you can get back ache if your bike is not adjusted the right height.They recommend this: “When you straddle a road bike or hybrid, the bar should be about 1 to 2 inches from your crotch. On mountain bikes, allow 3 to 6 inches. "As for your seat height, your down leg should be fully extended when the heel of that foot is on the pedal in the 6 o'clock position.” (credit:Tom Merton via Getty Images)
Your eating habits. (09 of10)
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According to the NHS, being over weight puts pressure on the spine, therefore eating healthily is key to keeping back ache at bay.Certain foods are also known to actively cause back pain as they increase inflammation in the body. (credit:Lew Robertson via Getty Images)
Your bra.(10 of10)
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Wearing an unsupportive bra can cause back pain, so get measured to make sure you're wearing the right size. (credit:Vstock LLC via Getty Images)

Professor Stuart McGill, of the University's faculty of applied health sciences, added: "Any family doctor will tell you that couples often ask them how to manage their back pain during and after sex.

"Many couples will remain celibate because one night of love-making can lead to months of back agony. Until now, doctors have never had any hard science to base their recommendations upon."

The researchers plan to publish details about what happens to the female spine in coming months.

Ladies, we'll keep you posted.