Back Pain runs in families!

I am often asked as a physical therapist, "Do herniated discs run in families?" I often respond that I don't know, but it seems that way.

Well, now we know!  It does run in families, and people who have a cousin or grandparent who have had a herniated disc have an increased chance, according to this article:

http://well.blogs.nytimes.com/2011/03/07/back-pain-runs-in-families/?ref=health

What does that mean for YOU if you have relative with back pain?  

• keep in good physical condition overall and exercise regularly
• keep your core muscles firing correctly and your MusclesInSync
• make sure to squat to pick up things from the floor
• step out and lunge with your forward leg if you have to reach (such as vacumning) and avoid bending at the back with your legs together