Is it surprising to learn that there are many back discomfort sufferers who lead happy, pain-free lives? If you suffer from recurrent back discomfort, you too are most likely surprised.

When you have an onset of back discomfort, rest for a couple days to be able to correctly determine the severity and to prevent further injury. If the pain goes away or lessens over that time, you can assume the injury was only a minor one. If your pain level increases or does not change at all, consult your physician for diagnostic tests. Resting for more than 48 hours usually won’t do any good, and it may even make the problem worse due to back muscle atrophy.

To prevent some back pain from getting worse, always attempt to avoid putting stress on the muscles that cause you pain. This stress can occur in any sitting or standing position, so make sure to stay mindful of it. Be especially mindful of this when completing repetitive tasks, such as house cleaning or work related projects. Always shift your stance and change positions, such as from standing to sitting, every 20 to 30 minutes.

Drink a half gallon of water a day. Preventing back discomfort is just one thing a healthy diet can help you with. A slimmer body will take the strain off the back, and nutrients that are found in fluids can also stop back discomfort from occurring.

Laziness and rushing often lead to lifting heavy items out of your healthy reach that you shouldn’t. Taking shortcuts, instead of playing it safe, often ends with an injury. Before lifting an object, move closer to it. By taking the time to align your body correctly, you minimize back pain issues.

Many women are opting for breast reduction surgery to help ease their back discomfort, and give themselves some permanent relief. It is necessary more often than you might think, though. Very large breasts will cause back discomfort. Women that receive breast implants often discover this burden.

Back pain usually manifests in the lower back, and it is one of the most common reasons that people go to the doctor. There are many small changes that you can make and many precautions that you can take to reduce and prevent back discomfort. Since a large majority of the population will experience pain in their back at some point in their lives, you would do well to practice preventive measures.

To become relaxed, feel your body go weightless and limp when you lay down. After you have relaxed begin flexing individual muscles, starting in your lower back and working your way up. This relaxation technique can relax the muscles throughout your body and relieve the tension responsible for your back pain.

Try using coolness and heat to relieve back discomfort. Ice will help relieve the pain and reduce swelling. On the other end of the spectrum, applied heat relaxes muscles while also increasing the flow of blood, both of which help ensure a smoother and faster healing process. Warm baths, heating pads and electric blankets are all good sources of healing heat, as long as you do not fall asleep during their use.

Back discomfort can cause problems in your personal life, as well as in your career. Work is affected and relationships strained by chronic back pain.