What is your health maintenance program? Most people brush their teeth daily to protect them from decay. We bathe, eat properly, sleep. We try to use moderation in our drinking and smoking. Many take vitamins. Many women buy expensive preparations to care for their skin. We are taught this basic health care from childhood. Increasingly, people are also exercising to protect their hearts. Now comes another health measure that is crucial: "the care of the back."

Because we have not included the care of the back on our daily health maintenance programs, millions of people regularly suffer from mild to severe back pain. Jobs are placed in jeopardy. Marriages are strained. Many recreational activities can't be enjoyed. Billions are spent each year by individuals and by industry on medical bills for back injuries that could have been avoided. Research in recent years has shown conclusively that exercise and correct body mechanics is the best prevention. In addition, it has been shown that good posture, adequate nutrition, and stress management also play an important role in maintaining a healthy back.

Page 16 / Illinois Municipal Review / May 1983