University of Alberta researchers found that progressive strength training exercises with weights was found to improve quality of life among participants with back pain by as much as 28%. Read about Dr. Meier's #KeepingYouActive campaign: http://MOSM.com.Orthopedic-Sports-Medicine-Media/ Dr. Steven Meier is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine doctor in Beverly Hills, Ca. The premise is inactivity makes the muscles that support the spine weaker, which in turn puts more pressure on the back and joints, making them work harder than they should which can create a vicious cycle of debilitation and pain. The first step should be to consult with a doctor when pain and symptoms persist for more than a few weeks or return frequently.