Sure, it’s easier to gain weight than it is to lose it – but at what cost? Studies show that a healthy diet and exercise can help combat obesity and metabolic disease, and prevent future back problems. Weight loss can improve back pain for both men and women of all demographics. I have many patients who have successfully improved their chronic back pain with weight loss and regular exercise. Physical activity increases the exchange of nutrients between spinal discs and other spine structures. When an individual doesn’t participate in enough physical activity, the spinal discs are deprived of the nutrients needed to stay healthy and strong. Increased body weight causes extra stress on the lumbar vertebrae, facets joints, and disks, which can lead to increased rates of injury and pain. People who have difficulty losing weight and keeping it off are at higher risk of developing osteoarthritis, a chronic condition that causes sore or stiff joints due to the breakdown of cartilage that cushions those joints, especially when their BMI is too high. Major Benefits of Weight Loss More energy to participate in everyday activities Potential for improved body/self confidence Lower propensity for stiffness and weakness of joints Minimized recurrence of lower