Low back pain can range from mild, dull, annoying pain, to persistent, severe, disabling pain in the lower back. Pain in the lower back can restrict mobility and interfere with normal functioning.

Low back pain is one of the most significant health problems. Consider these statistics from the National Institutes of Health (NIH):

• Seventy to 85 percent of all people have back pain at some time in their life.
• Back pain is a common cause of activity limitation in young adults.

Can low back pain be prevented?

The following may help to prevent low back pain:

• practicing correct lifting techniques
• maintaining correct posture while sitting, standing, and sleeping
• exercising regularly (with proper stretching before participation)
• avoiding smoking
• maintaining a healthy weight
• reducing emotional stress which may cause muscle tension