My wife and I have both had back injuries and years of back pain. After therapy and surgery, my wife still has trouble climbing stairs, getting in and out of the car, and even sitting for very long. Although I have returned to work, my pain level goes way up by the end of the day. We have three children and wonder if they will have weak backs. Is there anything we can do to help them keep healthy backs?

Studies show that some people are at greater risk for back pain if there are back problems in the immediate family. Unfortunately, there is no way to tell who will have these problems. It has been shown that people with back injuries who remain physically active and avoid long periods of rest and inactivity after episodes of back pain have better outcomes than those who don’t.

Learning how to lift safely and strengthening the back muscles can help prevent injuries. A physical therapist could show your whole family good back techniques and exercises. This may be a very good investment in your children’s back health.