Bend forward and try to touch your toes without bouncing. You don't have to reach them. What matters is whether the movement is smooth and pain-free. Sharp pain, numbness shooting down a leg, or a "catch" that won't release are early signs of disc trouble. Workers with daily lifting jobs should also notice morning stiffness that lasts more than 30 minutes, that's a flag worth raising with a doctor.
Check your back fitness
