More help for back pain

Thanks, everyone who mailed me after the last back pain post. Those of you who are suffering, I hope you soon get better and remember: never give in.

Here are a few more gadgets I've tried and found they really help:

• A telescopic 'sit/stand' desk: if you find sitting down difficult, this desk raises and lowers its top by an electric motor, so you can work standing up. Better for the waistline, too! If sitting, you can set it to the perfect height. Mine is delightful but was a complicated order as there are many variations. Order directly from the manufacturer, not through a middle man - it’s cheaper and simpler. It arrives flat-packed so if you construct it yourself be warned - it's straightforward but bloody frustrating.
• Among other things, The MacKenzie Institute makes good back support cushions. I use their ‘super roll’ all the time.
• This ‘Salli’ chair is the best I’ve tried. It keeps your posture upright, and it's simple and light - I recommend it to strengthen core muscles. It is saddle-shaped, so best for women; if you’re male, try the man’s version or it will squash your nads!
• Tempur make wonderful memory foam mattresses and pillows. It’s cheaper to buy Tempur products from ‘Back in Action’ and they deliver next day. The simple 15cm mattress was good enough for me - certainly no need for the luxury version.

The best relief is always a good philosophy. Read Meditations by Marcus Aurelius. He was a Stoic philosopher as well as a warrior emperor. Stoicism isn't stuffy, nor is it straight-laced - it's a sensible outlook and method of self-help as useful today as it was for Marcus, campaigning 'among the Quadi, on the River Gran'. 'Meditations' is the most peaceful and reassuring book I've ever read; I return to it often - and you will, too.

‘Pain is never unbearable or unending, as long as you remember its limitations and do not indulge in fanciful exaggerations.’ - Epictetus, quoted in 'Meditations'.