Book excerpt: Useful information on spinal conditions by an orthopedic surgeon and “one of the most reliable, respected health resources that Americans have” (Publishers Weekly). Back and neck pain are common complaints. When you think of all of the work your back and neck do each day—constantly moving, bending and twisting as you go about your day-to-day activities—it’s not surprising problems develop. It’s estimated that more than 80 percent of American adults will experience at least one bout of back pain during their lifetimes. The Mayo Clinic book Back and Neck Health looks at common back and neck conditions and what can cause them. The book also discusses different ways to treat back and neck pain. This includes self-care steps you can take at home, several interventional approaches, and different types of surgery. The final chapter of the book focuses on lifestyle and how to maintain good back and neck health.