I would like to add my 2p's worth!! . I live in a garrison town and as soon as I saw the post was from someone in military, I knew, if it was a consult, the first thing I would investigate would be the yomping + weight in backpack. It is this factor more than any other, in my experience, that hurts backs. The more important issue is the recovery therefrom.

However, I would totally agree with Canuk Physio regarding the genetic level. It is virtually impossible to separate genes from inherited characteristics through proximity; or cellular compromise through diet; or familial emotional holding patterns etc or any other kind of combination of cultural influences with their attendant benefit or otherwise. Where our attention is focused is where our experience happens. What we believe about this focus is what we actually experience.

We consult an expert and accept their pronunciations - this also has a profound effect because we assign a far greater weight to their words than others.

First off Sean, don't worry about getting better AT ALL!

Second, use core, deep squeezing to connect you as vitally as possible with the deepest balance of your spine.

Third, if it makes you feel better keep doing it, if it makes you hurt, stop for a while and maybe come back to it.

Try something which focuses on core balance, like pilates or yoga. You are the one inhabiting the structure and no one can become more expert in what benefits and what doesn't than yourself.