When you sit, keep your shoulders back and down, chin back, abdomen in, and your lower back supported. Your spine should be in the neutral position, with three general front-to-back curves.

Slouching can stress the ligaments and muscles in your lower back.

• Avoid sitting in one position for more than 1 hour at a time. Get up or change positions often.
• If you must sit a lot, make it a priority to do stretching exercises.
• If your chair doesn't give enough support, use a small pillow or rolled towel to support your lower back.
• Use proper sitting posture. See an illustration of proper sitting posture.
• To rise from a chair, keep your back in the neutral position and scoot forward to the edge of the chair. Use your leg muscles to stand up without leaning forward at the waist.
• For driving, adjust your seat so that the pedals and steering wheel are within comfortable reach. Stop often to stretch and walk around.