Guidelines are offered for the prevention and relief of lower back pain. The structure of the spine is described, and the functions and composition of spinal disks are explained. A list is included of common causes of abnormalities of the spinal column, and injuries which may cause the fracture of the vertebrae are described. Factors causing low back distress are listed, including insufficient flexibility, leg length discrepancy, habitual posture faults, and lack of abdominal muscle strength. A questionnaire is included which may help an individual to identify the likelihood of backache and health factors which could cause problems. Exercises are described which will test muscles for stength and flexibility and also prevent back pain. Drawings of the structure of the spinal column are included, as well as the movements in the preventive exercises. (JD)