The intervals have helped tremendously, not only with my back but just to stay fresh mentally and physically overall. I like the Pomodoro Technique, e.g. focus for 25 minutes followed by a 5-min break, but I don't do any of the other shit. I don't need an entire productivity system, just the intervals and some good house music.
To expand on exercise a bit, I'm not a doctor but in my personal experience it can actually be bad for your back. I went from the couch to running half marathons and hit a few back issues along the way. I'd say the key factors are: a) learning proper form and technique, including cardio; b) progression.