Back pain and lifestyle factors

Of course, factors such as aging, obesity and poor physical condition can also contribute to back pain. While you can't control your age, you can focus on maintaining a healthy weight, which minimizes stress on your back.

Start by eating a healthy diet. Make sure you get enough calcium and vitamin D. These nutrients can help prevent a condition that causes your bones to become weak and brittle (osteoporosis). Osteoporosis is responsible for many of the bone fractures that lead to back pain.

Combine aerobic exercise, such as swimming or walking, with exercises that strengthen and stretch your back muscles and abdomen. Exercises that increase your balance and strength can also decrease your risk of falling and injuring your back. Consider tai chi, yoga and weight-bearing exercises that challenge your balance.

For most healthy adults, the Department of Health and Human Services recommends at least 150 minutes a week of moderate aerobic activity or 75 minutes a week of vigorous aerobic activity — preferably spread throughout the week — and strength training exercises at least twice a week.

If you smoke, quit. Smoking reduces blood flow to your lower spine, which can contribute to spinal disk degeneration and slow healing from back injuries. Coughing associated with smoking can also cause back pain.