To avoid future flare-ups, talk with your doctor about starting an exercise program, such as Pilates, that will strengthen your abdominal and trunk muscles (aka your core). Good core stability will help protect your back from injury. Because body position and alignment are crucial when performing these exercises, you should consult with a physical therapist or fitness trainer to learn proper technique; doing the moves incorrectly may simply make your pain worse. More from Prevention: How To Start Doing Pilates
