Protect yourself against debilitating back pain - KTIV News 4 Sioux City IA: News, Weather and Sports

Back pain is a common complaint in today's society.  With a go-go lifestyle, a lot of us abuse our backs, and that can eventually lead to serious discomfort.  But there are ways to protection against back pain.  

Linda Hurley has suffered from back pain most of her life.  

"Lower back pain is so excruciating," says Hurley.  "It just rolls back and forth and there seems to be no comfortable position."

But with the help of a physical therapist, Hurley has regained her mobility and is able to get around with very little pain.

"Before I was on physical therapy, I was on a lot of pain killers and now if I remember to do my exercises I can stay ahead of it," says Hurley.

The American Association of Neurological Surgeons says an estimated 75 to 85 percent of all Americans will experience some form of back pain during their lifetime.  The most common back pain is caused by everyday wear and tear on the body.

"The first thing I look for, which is surprisingly very common, is having a mild curve in your back called scoliosis," says Pallavi Shah, a physical therapist with Physical Therapy in Action.

Shah, says if you do have back pain, see a specialist.