Almost everyone has low back pain at one time or another. The lower back is the connection between your upper and lower body, and it bears most of your body's weight. Because of these roles, it is easily injured when you lift, reach, or twist. The good news is that most low back pain will go away in a few weeks with some basic self-care. However, if your pain is severe or lasts more than a couple of weeks, see your doctor.

Once you have had low back pain, you are likely to have it again. To help keep your back healthy and avoid further back pain:

* Practice good posture when you sit, stand, and walk.

* Get regular, low-impact exercise. Walk, swim, or ride a stationary bike. Stretch before you exercise.

* Wear low-heeled shoes with good support.

* Sleep on your side. A medium-firm mattress may be easiest on your back.

* Don't try to lift things that are too heavy for you. When you must lift, bend your knees and keep your back straight, keep the object you are lifting close to your belly button, and avoid lifting and twisting at the same time.

* Watch your weight. Being too heavy, especially around your waist, puts extra stress on your back.

* If you smoke, quit. Smoking decreases blood flow and prevents healing. If you sit or stand for long periods at work.

These are just some of the many options for treating back pain. The most effective way to stop your back pain and prevent it from coming back is to get to the source of the problem and use the most effective cure. Knowing more about back pain and what contributes to it is the only way to have a successful back pain treatment.