Preventing Backaches and Back pain

*Adopt good posture, keeping the back straight. *Use chairs with good back support. *Sleep on a firm mattress and avoid lying face down. *Avoid having to sit, stand, or stoop for long periods. *Do not lift a heavy load with your back (i.e., bending over then raising the load by straightening the back). The best way is to crouch then raise the weight by straightening the knees, keeping the back straight. *Do exercises, particularly those that strengthen the abdominal and back muscles. *If overweight, reduce weight to decrease the load on the spine. *Avoid high-heeled shoes.