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Do you suffer from lower back pain? You’re not alone. According to the American Chiropractic Association, one half of all working Americans experience back pain each year.

So, what can you do about it?

Well, it depends on the cause of the pain. The spine is a complex system made up of several muscles, tendons, nerves, vertebrae, and discs. If any of these structures become slightly irritated, it could cause a significant amount of pain in the lower back.

If you are looking to alleviate your lower back pain, the best option is always to consult a licensed medical physician so that they can provide you with an accurate diagnosis. However, here are some things you can try on your own:

• Stretch twice every day. Since many of us spend 8+ hours a day at a desk, the muscles in our body can become tight, particularly in our legs. Tight hamstrings and hips can place additional stress on your back – stretching these muscles two times each day should help to relieve some discomfort.
• Temperature control. A combination of ice and heat can help reduce pain in your back; ice reduces inflammation and acts as a local anesthetic, while heat stimulates blood flow and the delivery of nutrients to the muscle.
• Improve your posture. Simply making a conscious effort to sit up straight can greatly reduce the amount of pain in your lower back. Many cases of lower back pain are caused by poor posture, which places unnecessary stress on your lumbar.
• Exercise. Depending on the reason for your pain, moderate exercise could improve the health of your lower back. Focus on core-strengthening exercises and other low-impact options such as swimming.

As previously mentioned, take this advice at your own risk. It is impossible to diagnose back pain through a computer screen, so it is strongly recommended that you see a licensed physician. If you live in Connecticut, you can schedule an appointment with one of the several qualified doctors at Orthopaedic Specialty Group by clicking here or calling (203) 337-2600.