80% of all Americans have back pain at some time in their lives. 15% or more suffer from chronic back pain. Overdoing even everyday activities can cause a flare up of back pain as our backs age with us and many times doctors cannot pinpoint the exact cause of some back pain. Lifting, shoveling, accidents or falls can cause strains and injuries leading to an aching back.

As with everything, the best course is preventative. Get regular exercise and maintain a healthy diet. Learn proper body mechanics and use them. Following these guidelines will lower your risk of developing chronic back pain or injury. But when you have pain, there are things you can do to alleviate it.

AARP has some tips for preventing back pain and relieving the symptoms when they occur as well as deciding when self-care isn’t enough and you should seek a medical opinion.

Link to the AARP page on back pain