Understanding what kind of lower Back pain a person has will determine their treatment. Many people suffer from either acute or chronic lower back pain. Lower back pain can be the result of aging, sprains, strains and spasms. A variety of methods will reduce pain and strengthen the back. Diagnosis of the back pain will set up the patient for proper treatment. Knowing how to prevent trauma and have a healthy back will deter lower back pain. If back pain lasts less than three months, it is acute. Usually a patient can treat themselves unless the pain is excruciating. Doctors can prescribe pain killers or muscle relaxants if this is the case. Home treatment of acute pain is varied but mostly involves first aid, medicine and exercise. Doctors want back pain sufferers to walk for at least twenty minutes every couple of hours. Lying down too much will most often make back pain worse. Chronic back pain does not go away after three months and is debilitating to a person's lifestyle. People who have chronic back aches will try many different methods to manage their pain. Acupuncture, biofeedback, cognitive-behavioral therapy, chiropractic care, massage and comprehensive rehabilitation are all methods sufferers may want to consider. There are quite a few other treatments for both types of back pain to help ease the back until it returns to normal. An example of this would be the use of ice and heat alternately. Exercising is necessary for either pain. Surgery is usually only a consideration in serious cases. Many different conditions and causes can result in lower back pain. Speaking to a doctor about the possible reasons will narrow down the diagnosis. There are many different types of tests a doctor can choose from, to include X-rays, bone scans and ultrasounds. Disorders such as fibromyalgia and diseases such as osteoporosis can be ruled out this way. Keep the back healthy by taking care of the muscles and bones that support the spinal column. Proper stretching and exercise keeps the core muscles healthy. Having proper posture and lumbar support is essential. A back will be healthy with exercise, eating well and no smoking.