Some people with low back pain find that using heat and cold helps them feel better.

Many people start with heat, because it's more likely to help.

But choose whatever works best for you.

Use a heating pad or hot pack a few times a day for 15 to 20 minutes at a time.

Choose a position that's comfortable.

Some people lie down with the heat under the back.

Other people sit, with the heat between the back and a chair.

If you use an electric heating pad, be sure to set it on low or medium--not high.

And don't fall asleep with it on.

You could also take a hot shower or soak in a hot bath.

Or use a heat wrap that you can buy at a drugstore.

To use cold, try putting a cold pack, a bag of ice, or even a bag of frozen peas or corn on your back for 15 to 20 minutes at a time.

Do this a few times a day.

Whatever cold method you use, don't put it right against your skin.

Put a thin towel or pillowcase between the ice and the sore area.

And if you refreeze and use the bag of peas or corn again, mark the bag clearly so no one uses it for dinner.

Some people like to switch between heat and cold.

Try using heat, then a few hours later use ice.

Experiment a little to see whether using heat ... cold ... or both ... works best for you.