Does weightlifting exercise damage your back and spine long term? any studies?

Depends: There are many studies that report improvement in back pain with weight training, as well as improving overall health. Strengthening the muscles in your back, can protect the spine from injury. I am not talking about power-lifting, though. Any weight-program should begin with the advice of a qualified person. And changes in that routine requires reliable input. See http://tinyurl.com/pjf4jqu

No: Intervertebral disc of the spine received nutrient due to process of imbibition, which requires motion. Proper stretching before and after workout, utilizing proper ergonomic technique we will reduce the risk of injury resulting from improper weightlifting.

No good studies: Unfortunately there is a lack of quality literature in regards to this topic. The difficulty comes in the complexity of developing a quality study. Use common sense with resistance training: make sure your form is good, listen to your body, don't forget to rest, and be careful of training for maximal power.