Wellness Index Back pain can be caused by overexertion, such as lifting too much, or by nonexertion, such as sitting too long. The keys to preventing back pain are good posture and regular exercise. It's hard to believe that chronic back pain can result from something as mundane as poor posture, but it's true. Poor posture puts a strain on muscles and ligaments and leads to back pain.
Good posture keeps the body in proper alignment, relieving muscles of unnecessary stress and strain.
Try this simple alignment test. When standing, you're in alignment if you can drop an imaginary straight line from your ears, through your shoulders, hips, and ankles. When sitting, your ears, shoulders and hips should be in line. Good posture keeps the three natural curves of your spine in balance, and allows your back muscles to support your spine without additional strain. Some people have the mistaken belief that only the muscles of the back need to be strong to prevent back pain.