Back pain is a common condition. Anyone who has had it once is more than likely to suffer another episode of it at some time or the other. In fact, The National Back Pain Society is of the opinion that numbers as high as 80% of adults could be afflicted with this condition at some time or the other during their adult lives. The question is, if so many are expected to suffer, can preventive measures be taken? If yes, what are the preventive measures that people need to be aware of?

Simple movements can bring on back pain. The good news is that that pain tends to disappear even if the patient does not receive any treatment. Also, doctors now tell us that back pain can be prevented. However, awareness needs to be created that back pain is preventable. In addition, the desire to retain a healthy back is very important. Some of the preventable causes of back pain are bad posture, subjecting oneself to unnecessary stress and lack of physical movement or exercise.

The foremost cause of back problems is poor posture. This has become more pronounced since we have started using computers. We tend to put pressure on our spines by adopting a forward bending posture or a slump when using the computer, watching TV, and just relaxing. The office workstation is the main culprit, but we cannot do without it. Therefore, the first preventive measure is to frequently straighten up and do stretching exercises. This will ensure that you have a chance to straighten out the shoulders, stretch the back and also prevent the back from developing an unnatural curvature. In other words, backstretches are one way to prevent back pain.

One more aspect that causes back pain is bad seating. Chairs that tilt backwards and force the person sitting in it to sink into the chair backwards are not good for the back. An ideal seat is one, which tilts forward slightly and eases the pressure off the lower back. In short, you need to use good seating to make sure you do not develop back problems.

It is also crucial to adopt measures that prevent back strain when trying to pick up things, especially heavy ones, off the ground. Make sure you bend your knees when lifting, as this position eases pressure on the back. Also, when getting out of bed, roll over on to your side, place your free hand flat on the bed level with your waist, swing your legs off the bed while you use your hand to push yourself up. Make sure you sit up well balanced before you stand up.

In addition, it is very important to improve on sedentary lifestyles and start moving around if we want healthy backs. It is important to remember that weak stomach muscles and paunches only contribute to weak backs. Make it a point to keep weight in control and most of all try to adopt a less stressful lifestyle.