[AnimalMuppet]

Being an engineer probably ruins your back less than being a furniture mover or a ditch digger.

That said, you're starting to have problems. Now what?

First, pay attention. When you're sitting, listen to your back (and neck). If it's a bit off, do something. Change your position (posture matters a lot). Stretch. Get up and walk around for a few minutes.

Second, I stretch every morning, both my legs and my back. (I should stretch my neck, too, but I don't.)

Third, I go to a chiropractor every other week. I know chiropractors have a bad reputation on HN, and I don't buy the whole thing. Chiropractors are going to cure cancer? No thanks, I'll try an oncologist. I'll even skip the nutritional supplements they recommend. But for straightening out my spine? Yeah, they do all right at that.