Chronic low back pain is most commonly the result of poor posture and or weakened muscles. As a result, chronic low back pain treatment is fairly low impact and easy to achieve.

Posture
Bad posture is a big contributor to low back pain. Sitting for extended periods can exacerbate this problem. People tend to sit slightly slouched over, creating a "C" shape with their spine. The most ideal shape for the spine is the natural "S" curve. To help maintain this position while seated, sometimes a lumbar or orthopedic support cushion is useful. Support cushions help to relieve pressure placed on the lower back while sitting. Their unique shape promotes an ideal posture, preventing pain down the road. Some even come with a built in massager to help increase blood flow and oxygen to irritated or swollen areas. The Healthy Back Institute offers a range of support cushions to help you maintain good posture while sitting at work, home or in the car. Visit their Web site at www.losethebackpain.com to browse their selection today.

Weakened muscles
Often adults can suffer from chronic low back pain as a result of a more sedentary lifestyle. Theyre not exercising as much, and their muscles become weakened. As a result, they cant support the pressures they once could, causing lower back pain. However, there are a few exercises you can do to help relieve that pain.

鈥?Try lying on the ground with your legs extended and your arms out in a "T" position. Bend your left leg and bring your knee to the ground over your right leg. This should create something that looks like a 4 with your legs. The movement should rotate your hips, stretching your lower back muscles. It should feel like a stretch, not painful. If you feel pain, bring your knee up a little until it doesnt hurt anymore. Hold this position for at least 10 seconds. Release and repeat on the other side.

鈥?Another stretch that may prove helpful can be done from a sitting position. Simply sit up, then bend over slowly and reach for your toes. Hold this position for several seconds then release. Repeat at least once.

鈥?Even something as simple as a brisk, regular walk can help get your blood pumping and help your posture and lower back muscles.

Medications
There are some over the counter medications you can try, however they may not be effective for chronic back pain, as the pain will just keep coming back. However, anti-inflammatory medications like Ibuprofen and Aleve may give you more relief than a simple pain killer like Tylenol. See what works best, but try to avoid becoming a pill popper.

Alternatives
Some people find relief through alternative methods. Topical creams like The Healthy Back Institutes Rub On Relief has been shown to be 100% effective at helping relieve back pain. Also, heat or cold compresses may be helpful. For chronic pain, heat may be the best answer, as cold is best upon initial injury. However, a typical heating pad may not be able to penetrate deeply enough to give lasting relief. The Healthy Back Institute sells an infrared heating pad that is proven to give long lasting relief as a result of its deeply penetrating heating technology.

The Healthy Back Institute understands chronic low back pain and provides some of the best treatment ideas available. Visit www.losethebackpain.com for more tips and tricks to help relieve your chronic low back pain today!