Fitness Beats Back Pain

A study of firefighters in Los Angeles found that those with the greatest level of fitness had the least amount of back pain. Perhaps the best way to avoid back pain or injury is to maintain a strong body by exercising regularly. Proper body mechanics are important in avoiding back strain when lifting heavy objects. Always bend the knees and lower the body without bending at the waist when picking up items on the floor. Use the strong muscles in the legs to do the work as the object is lifted. Keep the heavy objects as close to the center of the body as possible.