Lower back pain can be difficult to deal with on many levels, and it can have a surprising impact on your personal life. A new national survey of lower back pain sufferers developed by American Society of Interventional Pain Physicians (ASIPP) and Smith & Nephew Endoscopy, manufacturers of the Intradiscal ELECTROTHERMAL^◊Therapy (IDET^◊ ) procedure , found that nearly three-quarters of people gave up exercising or sports-related activities because of their pain, while three in five people stopped picking up their children.

If you do not suffer from back pain, there are steps you can take to remain free of pain and injury. Here, Dr. David Kloth, President of ASIPP and Medical Director and interventional pain management specialist of Connecticut Pain Care in Danbury, Connecticut , offers six tips for preventing lower back injuries.

• Don’t overestimate your strength: If you think an item might be too heavy, don’t lift it. And don’t be afraid to ask for help. Or, use a lifting or carrying aid, such as a dolly, to move heavy items.
• Plan your lift: Before you pick up a heavy object, check to see that you can comfortably take hold of it. Are there handles, or will you support it from the bottom? Take notice of where the bulk of the weight lies and plan according, shifting contents if necessary.
• Use proper form when lifting: If you must lift a heavy object, lift with your knees. Pull in your stomach muscles and keep your back straight. Keeping the object close to your body when lifting can also prevent strain and injury.
• Clear your path: If you’re going to carry a heavy load or make many trips, make sure your walkway is cleared of objects.
• Wear the right shoes:The fit and style of your shoes can affect your posture, too. Consult your physician to learn if your shoes are contributing to back pain.
• Stay in shape: Building up your core strength (stomach and back muscles) makes you stronger and less likely to strain or severely injure your lower back.
  

Remember, it’s important to visit your physician should back pain become chronic, severe, or has a sudden onset.