Loss of bone mass, or osteoporosis, is a common part of the aging process that may affect as many as 25 percent of all women over the age of 65.

There are many factors-personal, lifestyle, hereditary, and medical-that can affect your risk for developing heart disease.

A healthy back relies on three body systems - the skeletal system, the soft tissue system and the nervous system - working together to support your body and make movement possible. Take time to learn about the relationship between the three systems and the role each plays in the health of your back.

Does your back bother you when you wear your high-heeled shoes and dance the night away? After jogging five miles in your favorite tennis shoes? If it does, you’re not alone. The connection between back pain and your feet is well documented but often overlooked. To get to the root of your backache, start at your feet.

The term “slipped disc” is commonly used to describe a multitude of back pains and problems. A look at the composition and function of a disc explains why it doesn’t really slip, and why discs shouldn’t carry the blame for everything that goes wrong with our backs.

Spinal health is a daily habit. To stay strong, supple and aligned, your spine requires your active participation through good nutrition, stress management and, especially, exercise. If you do your part, your can count on your muscles and bones to do theirs.

Your back is sore, or you wake up with a stiff neck. Simple self-care techniques can help relieve these common problems. But for chronic or severe pain, see your doctor first.

A regular program of exercise is critical to back health and fitness. Strong, flexible muscles support your spine and allow movement. Weak, flabby muscles are susceptible to strains, sprains and stress. To strengthen your back muscles and prevent strains and injuries, develop an exercise program for fitness and strength. A primary element of your program should be some form of aerobic exercise. For many people, walking is the way to go.

Our modern lifestyle has many benefits but has also brought more stress to our daily routines. As a result, back problems have become an epidemic in recent times.

The following exercises can help turn the course of your back problem toward recovery. Consult with a health care professional before beginning a new exercise program. When doing floor exercises, be sure to use a mat.