The DL is not for everyone, not all of us are structured for that exercise. DL's, from rack pins or on strong boxes, etc, at a little above knee height can be more of a benifit than lifting from the floor. Less danger of overextending the back or hitting the knee's on the way up and the opportunity of using a whole lot more weight (100+) on the bar. You can go by the book or have experience personal instruction as far as correct form on the DL is taught. But if your body is not structured for it, you may improve but can still encounter problems . Might try SLDL's as a choice over the regulr DL, a very affective movement.
Could also try using a trap or shrug bar, where you stand in more of a direct line for lifting the bar and where the grip becomes more natural for most guy's. You don't have to worry about an over-under grip, which may or may not cause an improper torque to the spine. Not common but is possible. If someone tells you that DL's from the floor are the only way for a massive back, than they would only be incorrect. Good Luck.
