Of all of the depressing failings associated with advancing years, surely having to wave goodbye to flexibility and the ability to move without first considering the implications is the worst?

The unexpected back spasm can happen at any time and be both painful and embarrassing but, as time has its insidious way, a new peril pulls itself up, groaning and wincing to inflict unnecessary misery.

Extreme sports enthusiast can expect the occasional back injury.

Bungee jumpers? Fair enough.

But damaging a back whilst turning, lying down or even just sleeping?

What now?

Sound familiar? Veteran vertebrae. Get used to it.