At some point in our lives, most of us have had to deal with back pain ... and if you haven't, well lucky you. Just don't expect any congratulations from the rest of us -- we're too busy grimacing.
On a more serious note, back pain comes in many forms. In some cases, it goes away by itself, but in other instances it's serious enough to warrant a trip to a health care practitioner. Take this quiz to test how much you know about various types of back pain, and how you should treat them.
For women, carrying a large handbag can cause back and shoulder pain. What's the most your handbag should weigh?
10 percent of your body weight.
According to Dr. Shazia Khan, any heavier and you're at risk for neck, shoulder and back pain, as well as headaches.
If your back pain gets worse at night, or is so severe that it wakes you up, this could be an indication what more serious condition?
Fibromyalgia.
According to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS), If your back pain gets so bad at night that it wakes you up, it's time to see a doctor.
Lower back pain is extremely common. About how much does it cost the U.S. economy each year?
$50 billion.
According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, back pain is the second most common neurological ailment in the United States. The most common is headaches.
Which of the following is an example of BAD lifting technique?
Relax your stomach muscles.
Proper lifting technique actually involves tightening your stomach muscles.
Which of following is NOT a good exercise for your lower back?
Squats.
All of the other exercises in the list strengthen your lower back and help you avoid back pain. For more information about these exercises, read ThirdAge's article, "Back Pain: Exercising Your Options."
