Lower back pain is an occupational hazard, often stemming from sitting long hours in front of a computer. It is most common in people from 35 to 55 years old. More than 70% of people in developed countries will experience lower back pain at some time in their lives and approximately 30% of European workers say their occupation has resulted in them developing this affliction. With these figures it is necessary to find ways to prevent the symptoms worsening and becoming chronic. If you suffer from back pain, there are a number of chiropractic clinics, osteopaths, physiotherapy clinics and massage studios in Amsterdam. They offer various treatments such as cranio-sacral, shiatsu and deep tissue massage to help alleviate the pain. Although osteopaths and chiropractors are similar professions, a chiropractor will tend to use more diagnostic procedures such as X-rays, MRI scans, and blood and urine tests. Osteopaths use these procedures as well, but to a lesser extent. Both use movement palpation (feeling the spine as it moves) to assist in diagnosing where there are abnormalities of movement. A first consultation for both types of practioners costs between €60 and €70, and subsequent consultations €45. There are a number of reliable sources for finding accredited chiropractors in the Netherlands: www.chiropractic-ecu.org, www.chiropractie.nl or the Gouden Gids under Chiropractie. For finding osteopaths you can also look in the Gouden Gids under Osteopaten or visit www.ostepathie-nro.nl.