Back pain is one of the most common ailments in the world. Experts believe that up to 80% of the global population will experience back pain to some degree in their lifetimes.

That said, it’s important to be aware that back pain is potentially avoidable. There are many steps you can take to reduce your odds of struggling with major back pain. They include the following:

Maintain Proper Posture

Maintaining correct posture both when standing and when seated is one of the best and simplest ways you can reduce your odds of developing chronic pain. While it may be somewhat challenging at first to constantly monitor your posture throughout the day, if you make a point of maintaining correct posture, eventually, your posture will naturally improve without requiring you to actively correct it.

Exercise

One of the most common causes of back pain is lack of exercise. This is because when you don’t exercise enough, critical muscles in your abdomen and lower back grow weak.

Lift Properly

It’s best to avoid heavy lifting if you wish to guard against back pain. That said, sometimes it’s necessary to lift heavy objects, whether you want to or not. For example, your job may require you to engage in some form of heavy lifting.

When you do have to lift a heavy object, make sure to do so properly. You must bend at the knees and keep your back straight. If an object is too heavy to safely lift on your own, ask for someone to help you, and use tools or equipment to make lifting heavy objects easier whenever possible.

Maintain a Healthy Weight

This point isn’t meant to criticize or shame anyone for being overweight. Many factors can influence a person’s weight. Some of those factors they may have limited control over.

However, many factors influencing your weight are the type that you can control, such as how many calories you consume in a day and whether you get enough exercise.

Try your best to avoid being overweight by exercising regularly and eating well. Being overweight is one of the top causes of back pain.

Don’t Smoke

Smoking negatively impacts your health in many ways. It can increase your risk of developing back pain because it restricts the flow of blood to spinal discs. As a result, spinal discs don’t receive the nutrients they need.

Don’t Wear High Heels

Women in society often feel pressure to wear high heels. It’s understandable if you feel there are simply instances when you have to wear them. However, you should try not to wear high heels more often than necessary, as doing so can increase your risk of developing back pain.

There are also steps you can take to address your pain if it’s already developed, such as wearing a back brace. Just be aware, none of the information here is a substitute for professional medical advice. If you are experiencing back pain, it’s best to consult with a doctor. Your back pain may be the result of underlying conditions or injuries that need to be treated.