Back injuries and pain are very common nowadays. Many activities, including simply sitting or lifting, can cause these problems. Here are some tips to help you avoid and deal with back pain.

A mattress can be either good for back pain, or it can actually contribute to it. Often, a medium firm mattress is the best option for providing support and comfort. If your mattress is too soft, you will be prone to unnaturally flexing your spine while sleeping. Conversely, a mattress that is too firm will make it so you can't relax your spine region. Be sure to find a happy medium when you are shopping for a mattress, so that it will provide the right amount of support, but also is comfortable.

When your muscles are warm is the best time for you to stretch them to reduce back pain. After you've exercised, be sure to cool down and stretch.

Back surgery is unfortunately sometimes required in order to relieve back pain. Surgery is only considered after all other options have been unsuccessful. But severe injuries to the back may require surgery.

If you are experiencing back pain, stressing out about it will only make it worse. Instead, discover ways to relax so there is less chance you will experience spasms in your back muscles. It is important to get good rest and apply heat therapy to help alleviate back pain.

Many people that have back pain are also smokers. Smoking actually reduces blood flow, which could cause something known as spinal disc degeneration.

In order to avoid any back pain, you should make calcium and vitamin D a part of your diet. Lack of these important vitamins and minerals can cause your bones to become depleted. This can lead to bone deterioration and ultimately, back pain. Back pain caused by a deficiency of certain nutrients can be relieved if you improve your diet and strengthen your bones. Your back will be very grateful.

Lose weight to reduce back pain. Being overweight by even just a few pounds can put a lot of stress on your back. Poor muscle tone and muscle/ligament strain from being overweight often go hand in hand, and both will contribute to back problems. Try to achieve a good weight/height proportion.

Yoga can help to lessen back pain. The activity is very therapeutic. This can help you correct your spine's misalignment. In addition, it assists you in loosening any tight joints or muscles that you have, which causes your body to be more relaxed. Classes can be found at almost any gym.

A quality mattress can be a remedy for back pain. Mattresses are expensive, but thankfully many manufactures encourage trying out the mattress for a month or more, as long as it is amply protected.

When you sit or drive for extended periods of time, you are risking your back health. Putting back cushions behind you can assist in easing back troubles. You can buy these online, or at a local pharmacy. There are many types of pads available, and you should keep looking until you discover one that's a good fit for you.

You shouldn't feel that you are alone because back problems are a very common problem for many people. Find the cause to find the best solution for the problem. Perhaps, relief might just be in your immediate future!