Prevention

• Regular exercise can decrease hardening and early breakdown of the disks, as well as improve the overall strength and tone of the supporting muscles and structures.
  
  
• Use proper techniques while performing strenuous exercise and strenuous work, including lifting. Lifting should be done with the legs performing the work, not the back. The worst possible combination of activities for your spine is heavy lifting while bending and twisting at the same time.
  
  
• Use of a spine brace during heavy lifting may be advised. Its proper use is to keep your back straight and encourage proper lifting technique. It should not be used as a substitute for proper technique or to encourage you to exceed safe lifting limits.