Posted on 16th Nov 2011 @ 4:34 PM

Up to 90 percent of us will experience back pain at some point in our lives. Those of us who have already joined the ranks of the chronically sore will tell you: A person with back pain will do almost anything to stop having back pain. But before you resort to drugs or surgery, consider giving yoga a try. There are several poses that can help alleviate pain, improve flexibility and prevent future injuries.

1. For Upper Back Pain: The Thunderbolt [click to view]

If you work at a computer -- and if you don't, you're a rare and lucky soul -- you're familiar with upper back pain. Something about the slouching posture typing encourages cramps up the back faster than almost anything else in the world. (Except possibly sitting on the sofa, which is weirdly the only thing anyone ever wants to do after a day of typing.) Even ergonomic chairs may not be enough to relieve the pain  for some of us.

2. For the Lower Back: Child's Pose [click to view]

One of our personal favorites, child pose seems like it's just you, taking a rest, on a mat. But while you're resting, you're also opening up your hips and stretching your lower back. This one feels really great if you have a tendency to overcorrect your posture by arching your low back while you sit.

3. For the Whole Back: The Bow [click to view]

Want to stretch your whole back in about five minutes? Try the bow pose. In addition to loosening up the muscles of your upper, lower, and mid-back, the bow pose opens up your chest, massages the abdominal organs, aids in digestion, and helps alleviate anxiety. That's a lot of work for one little pose.

A cautionary note: If you have certain types of back injuries, you might want to avoid certain poses. The standing forward bend and seated forward bend can put too much strain on the lower back. The best advice is always to move slowly and listen to your body.