Can We Prevent Back Injuries?

In Brief Learning Objectives Back pain is one of the most significant health care issues in North America. It affects health/fitness professionals as well as their clients. Approximately 60% to 80% of individuals in that population will suffer from back pain at one point in their life. The objectives of this article are 1) to review the research on back injuries as it relates to risk factors, 2) discuss the mechanisms of injury, 3) provide an objective interpretation of back injury prevention, and 4) provide exercises that can be used to prevent back pain. Back pain is one of the most significant health-care issues in the U.S. Approximately 60% to 80% of the population will suffer from back pain at one point in their life. This feature examines the risk factors for, and causes of, back injuries and explains exercises that can be done to decrease the risk for back injury.