How to Treat Back & Neck Pain Without a Chiropractor

Pain in the neck and back affects many people in the United States. According to Spine-Health.com, approximately 70 to 85 percent experience pain in these areas at some point. Although it's not life threatening, discomfort in the back and neck region can make daily tasks seem unbearable. You can alleviate pain in these areas, however.

Things You'll Need

• Mattress
• Heating pad
• Pain reliever

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Instructions

• 1

  Maintain good posture at all times. While watching TV, sitting at the computer, walking around or even driving, good posture can make all the difference. Stand or sit up straight with both feet on the floor.

• 2

  Switch out your mattress. Your mattress and pillow should support your neck, shoulders and back completely to avoid pain in those areas. Memory foam mattresses can conform to your body's natural curves for full support.

• 3

  Ask for a massage or give one to yourself. Whether you get a professional to do it or ask a friend, even a short massage can help reduce tension and stress built up in the neck and back. Massages are one of the easiest ways to treat discomfort.

• 4

  Reduce your level of stress. It may seem unrelated, but stress can result in unpleasant tension built up in your back and neck region. Target the point of stress in your life (family, work, friendships) and minimize it.

• 5

  Use a heating pad to relax any muscle spasms or knots in your back and neck.

• 6

  Take an over-the-counter medicine that targets pain. Any aspirin or pain reliever will work. Take as directed.