Back and neck pain are common complaints. When you think of all of the work that your back and neck do each day—constantly moving, bending and twisting as you go about your day-to-day activities—it’s not surprising that problems develop. But just as doing too much can put your back and neck at risk, so can doing too little. Decreased physical activity is a major contributor to poor spinal health. It’s estimated that more than 80% of American adults will experience at least one bout of back pain during their lifetimes, and as many as one-third of adults are bothered by neck pain. Relief of back and neck pain is among the top reasons people see their primary care providers. Back and Neck Health looks at common back and neck conditions and what can cause them. The book also discusses different ways to treat back and neck pain, including self-care at home, several interventional approaches and different types of surgery. The final chapter focuses on lifestyle strategies to help keep your spine strong and healthy. The book is based on the advice of leading Mayo Clinic doctors and medical staff who treat individuals with back and neck problems on a daily basis. Their message is that you don’t have to live in pain. Back and neck conditions can be treated, often without surgery. Find out how you can enjoy the more active lifestyle you seek.