Our backs are probably one of the most abused and neglected parts of our bodies. We make them bend, lift and turn on demand, often without considering the repercussions of our actions, or remembering how important they are in helping us perform basic everyday functions. Aside from how we treat them, they often get forgotten because we simply can't reach to pamper them-until that is, something goes wrong and they cause us grief or pain.

Then we really let them have it as we continually complain. Oh, my aching back! I can barely move! That itch is driving me crazy! All sorts of comments, some a little too explicit to mention here, get repeated over and over again without a second thought, as we generously pump ourselves with anti-inflammatory medicine and pain killers. Wouldn't it be better to care for our backs before they cause us so much irritation?

So how do you care for your back, and what can you do to keep it happy, resulting in a much happier you, too? There are actually quite a few things you can do to ease stress on your back, relieve dry skin, and easily avoid mishaps that might send you into the throws of miserable back pain.

*Stretching: Your back needs to be loose and relaxed to function properly. Take the time to stretch every morning before you get out of bed, and throughout the day. Reach up, out, and all around, especially after you have just lifted or carried something heavy. Stand up and walk around if you spend most of your day at the computer or behind a desk.

*Exercise: Deep knee bends with good posture is vitally important to maintain a strong healthy back. Swimming helps muscles relax while building their strength. Yoga poses are great for developing flexibility in your back. Toe touches help lengthen your back.

*Moisturize: It seems so simple, but moisturizing your back is important. Pour some lotion on a wash cloth. Mix it in well and with one hand, hold it over your shoulder. Take your other hand, and reach up behind your back to grab the corner of cloth hanging down. Now move the cloth back and forth, loosening dead skin cells and moisturizing your back as you do so. The motion of your arms is also a great stretching exercise for your back. Switch sides to keep it even.

*Massage: There are many choices when it comes to massage. You can purchase electric ones, visit a professional masseuse, or ask a friend or relative to help you. You can even purchase a massaging shower head to give you a back massage every time you shower.

*Hot and cold therapy: Sit down, take a load off, and put a heating pad or ice pack on your back. Do this at least three times a week, for about 20 to 30 minutes each time, to help heal damaged muscles. Hot and cold therapy helps you function by relieving inflammation and soothing tired muscles.

*Rest: If your back is starting to bother you, chances are you need to give it some good rest. You need to take the time to sleep it off, not just sit on the couch and rest. Go to bed and get a full night's sleep for once. Chances are you've been working a little bit too hard, and your back is letting you know that you've been carrying just a little too much stress lately.

Learn more about this author, M. J. Joachim.
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