7 Ways to Prevent Back Pain

Back pain is one of the most common reasons for missed work and costs Americans billions of dollars a year in medical bills, lost productivity and disability. Plus, it's inconvenient and painful.

The list of its causes seems almost endless with stress, car accidents, sports injuries, obesity, pregnancy, scoliosis, arthritis, herniated disks, fracture, infection and lifting a heavy object, just to name a few.

Almost every one experiences a form of spine pain at some point in their lives. However, there are ways to try to prevent it.

To prevent this type of pain do the following:

1. Maintain a healthy diet and weight because obesity leads to back pain.

2. Remain active but don't do anything too strenuous. Being inactive or on bed rest can cause back problems so stay active, but don't overdo it or you may tear or strain muscle or ligaments in your back. You may even slip something out of alignment.

3. Stretch before all physical activities including sports, exercise and even gardening or playing with children. Stretching takes just a few minutes and helps prevent tears and strains in all body parts, not just your back.

4. Have good posture when sitting and standing, bad posture can cause back pain.

5. Wear comfortable shoes with a low heel, they offer better back support.

6. Lift with your knees or legs not your back. Relying on your back muscles when lifting a heavy object can cause you to throw out your back.

7. Sleep on a good mattress. Medium firmness is usually the best because it has good support without being too hard.

Not all back pain can be prevented. If you take all precautions and still have spine pain see your physician or a specialist. There are many treatment options for people suffering from back pain.