Everyone behind the wheel knows that trucking for a living is hard on the back. It was just confirmed this week when the members of the American Chiropractic Association rated trucking as the most “back-breaking” profession in America.

But what’s a trucker to do if he wants to reduce back pain without painkillers or a trip to have his back “popped”?

Well, try the proverbial ounce of prevention. According to the chiropractic group, here are six ways you can prevent back problems in the first place.

• Don't lift by bending over. Instead, bend your hips and knees and then squat to pick up the object. Keep your back straight, and hold the object close to your body.
• Don't twist your body while lifting.
• Push, rather than pull, when you must move heavy objects.
• If you must sit for long periods, take frequent breaks and stretch.
• Wear flat shoes or shoes with low heels.
• Exercise regularly. An inactive lifestyle contributes to lower-back pain.