There are a number of causes for back pain, everything from a slip and fall accident to long term trauma caused in a work situation. Back pain can be a result of pregnancy or an automobile accident. What ever the reason for the back pain, every person who suffers from it is looking for one thing... relief.

Depending on the type of back pain you are suffering from and how it was brought about, the very first thing you should do is to visit your doctor. This is because your doctor knows your medical history, what medications will work well for you and which won't. A doctor will know if ordering x-rays will be necessary and will be able to walk you through the following back pain relief suggestions.

One of the best things that you can do to get some relief from back pain may not seem like relief at all. Get up and get moving. If you have hurt your back the desire to lie in bed until it feels better can be very powerful. However, a lot of the times this is the worst thing you can do. Starting slow, get up and get moving, every time you get up will be easier than the last time. While this is most definitely not a cure for back pain, moving and stretching the back muscles can bring relief over time.

Another old stand by for back pain relief is over the counter pain medication. Some, such as acetaminophen are great for relieving pain while reducing swelling. Naproxen is also helpful with inflammation and irritation, common causes of back pain. Most over the counter pain medications also have a formulation made specifically for the relief of back pain.

If these common remedies don't work, you may need to step up treatment and seek a chiropractor. A chiropractor is a doctor that specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of spinal disorders. Generally, a referral from your primary physician will be necessary for this visit. A chiropractor will attempt to adjust your spine in such a way as to realign it for maximum back pain relief. This form of treatment can take several visits and may not be completely covered by insurance.

If a chiropractor doesn't work for you, or if you prefer to keep your back pain treatment more natural, you may want to consider acupuncture. This is an ancient form of Chinese medicine that is becoming more widely accepted in the western world. Acupuncture works on the premise that energy flow is blocked through the body, causing pain. The pain is relieved when acupuncture pins are inserted into this unseen pathway.

Another form of non-medication back pain relief is exercise, although not all exercise lends itself to people with back pain. However, yoga is a form of exercise that can be very good for back pain. The movements are slow and deliberate, and therefore don't tend to exacerbate the pain.

Remember, talk to your doctor. Discuss your personal concerns and questions; you are partners in your back pain relief.