Back and Neck Care
Relieving Back Pain; Photo of person holding back
The neck is the most flexible part of your spine. It's also easy to injure, because it's not well protected by muscles. More
A Workable Guide to Back and Neck Care
Back and Neck Basics
A healthy spine supports the body and a healthy neck supports the head, allowing you to move freely and without pain.
Keeping Your Back Healthy
You can keep your back in good shape through regular exercise, weight management and proper lifting techniques.
Dealing With Back Pain
Back pain can range from dull to severe, but most cases of back pain go away on their own.
Preventing and Treating Neck Pain
Even if your neck pain is caused by an injury or a worsening condition, you can take steps to provide relief.
Back Pain and Pregnancy
As your body prepares for childbirth, hormones cause pelvic muscles, ligaments and joints to loosen. This can lead to pain.
Health Tip of the Day

Packing Few Books

Many children's backpacks are too heavy. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends children carry no more than 10 percent of their weight in a backpack. Carrying too much, or carrying a heavy backpack on one shoulder instead of two, can increase curvature of the spine and produces neck and back strains. Your child should put heavier items in the pack first, so they are closest to the back. A smaller child should use a smaller pack. Packs should have wide, well-padded shoulder straps; these should be fastened so the pack is snug against the center of the back. Your child should lift a heavy pack by bending both knees and lifting with the legs.