Back pains can cause so much trouble for all of us and is one of the major reasons for doctor visits. In 10 people, 9 suffer back pains at some point of their lives and for every year 5 out of 10 adults complain of back pains. As the name suggests, back pain is felt at the back and can originate from nerves, muscles, joints bones, or other structures in the spine. The pain is divided into 4 major categories: neck pain, upper back pain, lower back pain and tailbone pain. The pain can be sudden or chronic, constant or intermittent, stays in one place or radiate to other areas. The pain can be dull, sharp or piercing or a burning sensation. Back pain is also divided in terms of its duration: acute - which lasts less than 4 weeks, sub-acute - lasts for 4-12 weeks, and chronic which lasts for more than 12 weeks.

Back pain does not necessarily need immediate medical attention. Most back pains are results of inflammation. Although some back pains can be signs of serious medical problems, this is not always the case.

There are different causes of back pains but most of these can be alleviated by some therapies. One of these therapies is the heat therapy which is useful for back spasms and other conditions. Studies show that heat therapy can reduce the symptoms of acute and sub-acute back pains. Most patients agree that moist heat works best such as indulging one's self in a hot bath. Some would rather have continuous low-level heat on affected areas like putting on a heat wrap for a longer heated relief. However, there are cases where you need to apply cold compress to relieve back pains.

Another way to relieve back pains is to take muscle relaxants, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or paracetamol. Most of the times back pains are connected with muscle pains so muscle relaxants will greatly help. Paracetamol is an analgesic that can relieve any kind of pain. The most popular paracetamol is Acetaminophen.

Massage therapy is also great in giving temporary relief for back pains. Rather than having a traditional Swedish massage, better have opt for acupuncture or pressure point massage. This way, it can relieve the pressure on your back.

Posture training course and physical exercises can also relieve back pains. Specialists have recommended doing exercises that will strengthen the muscles and bones at the back. Back pains also occur when you have weak back muscles and bones.

You also might want to try aquatic therapy as it strengthens the spine and improves flexibility.

Once back pains are gone, it is important to keep them at bay. Maintain a healthy lifestyle by eating the proper kinds of foods. Do exercises too. Exercises not only keep us healthy but keep our muscles strong and fit. The more our muscles are being used, the more they are strengthened. Inactivity causes poor muscles and bones. Practice proper posture too. Poor posture can cause back pains because the back is stressed in keeping the incorrect posture.