Whether it’s from playing golf, working in the yard or simply sitting at a desk, statistics show that two-thirds of U.S. adults will experience back pain in their lifetime.
In your day-to-day activities, are you putting unnecessary strain on your back? Here are some ways to protect your back and relieve back pain:
* Stand up straight. Good posture will relieve pressure from your lower back.
* Stay fit. Exercise is important for keeping your muscles strong and maintaining a healthy weight. Being overweight puts more of a strain on the back. People who exercise infrequently also are more prone to back injury because their muscles are not accustomed to the exertion.
* Have an ergonomic work area. Your chair should support your lower back and help you maintain good posture. If you work on a computer, the screen should be positioned so that you do not have to tilt your head up or bend your neck down to see it. Sitting in the same position for a long period of time also strains your back. Get up from your desk and walk around several times a day.
* Evaluate your mattress. A mattress that is too soft or too firm can be a major culprit in back...