If you suffer from back pain, a good rule of thumb is to make sure you know what is in a box before you lift it. What is in the box could be heavier than you think; it will hurt your back. Do not depend on the picture on the exterior of the box to determine its contents.

To aid your body in healing from painful back injuries, invest in a firm mattress. Many people mistakenly believe that a soft mattress will be more comforting to their injured back. In truth, a soft mattress will not help you to maintain your posture through the night while a firm mattress gives your back the support it needs to repair itself.

If you suffer from issues with the cartilage in your spine, you can avoid pain by avoiding sitting for long periods of time. Sitting compresses the disks in your spine, because it causes your abdomen to press backwards. Try reclining, or using a lumbar cushion if you must sit, and take frequent breaks to stand up.

The use of acupuncture and massages are found to be wonderful in relieving back pain. Both of these techniques will release endorphins into your body which will make you feel a lot better, and allow your body to relax. Once that happens your muscles can get the help that they need.

Calcium and vitamin D are essential to healthy bones. Consult your physician if your pain is not relieved by over the counter medication. Sometimes all you need is a small dose of an over-the-counter pain killer in order to stop your back hurting. In more severe cases, however, stronger prescription painkillers may be required.

Make sure to consult your doctor about alternative methods to treatment as well, including acupuncture and possibly even massage. Other methods as well are available, and these solutions might be of aid to help alleviate your chronic back pain. Acupuncture is a rather old and proven treatment, so be open to different suggested treatments that your doctor might recommend.

An inversion table is a great tool for helping people with back pain. It essentially turns you upside down and reverses the force of gravity, allowing the ideal shifting of your body, weight, and proportionate back. Therefore, it can go a long way in alleviating back pain symptoms and forcing correction.

Back pain, when left untreated, can lead to some very serious problems. With the information you now possess, you can work on successfully reducing your back pain.