Repeated heavy lifting, a sudden awkward movement, bulging or ruptured vertebral disks, osteoarthritis are the common causes of back pain.

Back pain due to a slipped or herniated disc puts increased pressure on the nerves. Too much pressure damages nerves that go to other areas of the body, bringing about pain and weakness in those areas. Chronic pain can prevent a person from regular exercise. Depression and severe pain often cause irregularities in a person's sleep pattern, which can lead to insomnia.

Yoga is a mind-body therapy that is recommended to treat not only the back pain but also the stress that accompanies it. The appropriate poses can relax and strengthen your body.

Research suggests acupuncture may be a useful tool for treating chronic lower back pain. It has also been shown to provide short term relief in one of the reviews of 22 acupuncture studies.

Over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers are a non-invasive treatment option for back pain. Medications such as naproxen, ibuprofen and acetaminophen are most effective in reducing pain and swelling associated with muscle-related lower back pain.