14 Natural Ways to Get "Back" to Pain-free Living

"Oh, my back is killing me!" Sound familiar?

While top nutrition and being careful to avoid further strain and injury are excellent starting points for treating back pain, serious or persistent discomfort may need more attention. If you are one of the numerous souls suffering from back trouble, you might be asking: What ELSE can I do to find relief?

In short, a lot! There are many time-tested, effective holistic treatments out there that do wonders for the relief of back pain. And the real beauty of this holistic approach? All of these options, alone or combination, also work for preventive care--yes, it may even be possible to not just get free of pain, but also keep it from occurring again.

1) Acupuncture
This traditional Chinese therapy uses hair-thin filaments to balance stress, ease tight muscles, balance the flow of energy in the body, and release endorphins to block discomfort. Acupuncture can be very comfortable and relaxing, and I personally have had great success alleviating back pain using one particular method, trigger point therapy, for tight muscles.

2) Chiropractic
Using their hands or tools, chiropractors manipulate the joints or spine to alleviate misalignments that cause back pain.

3) Physical Therapy
Stretches, exercises, hands-on techniques, heat, and ultrasound are just some of the ways that therapists work to guide patients through pain. Physical therapists also educate patients on effective self-care.

4) Yoga
Certain poses can be very beneficial for alleviating back pain by offering a calming balance and improving flexibility. Note: Be sure your instructor knows about your back condition before you begin as some modifications may be advisable.

5) Pilates
This exercise technique emphases stretching, keeping the body balanced, and especially strengthening the core, which in turn supports the back. As with yoga, it must be modified for back pain sufferers.

6) Tai Chi
This flowing, low impact form of exercise can help to change pain-inducing habits in movement.

7) Massage
Therapeutic massage is helpful to ease back pain and provide relaxation, especially when combined with other modalities.

8) The Alexander Technique and the Feldenkrais Method
With these methodologies, a practitioner uses observation and gentle redirection to help the patient become aware of and change habits and posture that can contribute to back pain.

9) Guided Imagery
With the help of a live partner or a CD, this mindset technique uses a calm, quiet mental journey to bring patients relaxation and relief by improving their thinking regarding pain.

10) Hypnosis
A hypnosis practitioner presents empowering messages designed to help alleviate back pain while the patient is in a relaxed, comfortable state.

11) Biofeedback
This process, usually performed with the help of a safe, gentle electrical device, teaches patients to retrain their mind and body to better handle the stress response.

12) Aromatherapy
This pleasant method uses fragrant herbs and oils to balance energy and to encourage relaxation.

13) Homeopathic Remedies
Various naturally occurring compounds have been used to stimulate tissue repair, reduce swelling, and relieve pain of acute and chronic injury.

14) Talk Therapy, NeuroEmotional Technique (NET), and Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT)
Speaking with a professional about your pain and your challenges can help you to deal with stress, anxiety, and physical issues.

Back pain can put a serious crimp in daily living, but there is hope. Even if your condition is chronic, with so many potential solutions available, there's a very real possibility you can find improvement--or even a complete solution. I encourage you to give these a try. Commit now to testing one or more holistic method in the next week--and look forward to minimizing pain and maximizing the sense of calm that can lend extensive healing effects on back pain.