The fast-paced lifestyles of today have taken their toll on the backs of America. Currently, back pain is the number one cause of disability in those aged 19-45 and is the second leading cause of missed work days. Total annual costs for back pain in the US alone are estimated to be in excess of $60 billion.

A number of factors contributing to these statistics, including:

• overall increases in work demands
• overall decreases in physical activity
• increases in prolonged sitting (at the desk, in the car, in front of the television)
• lack of periodic spinal checkups and preventative care
• failure to seek immediate care following injury
• poor postural habits and lifting techniques