Back pain afflicts hundreds of millions of Americans, but when you're pregnant, back pain is even harder to deal with. Don't let the joy and wonder of these coming nine months be marred by constant back pain; find a solution that works for you, instead.

1. Try Falling Asleep on Your Side 

Even for people not carrying a little one inside of them for nine months, sleeping directly on the back can cause pain and discomfort, not just when you first wake up, but for days on end. The derriere adds a cushion to the sleeping formation, lifting the spine in an unnatural and aggravating way. Find one side that your comfortable on and make an effort to remain in that position for the duration of your sleeping.

2. Keep Up With Posture All Day Long

As difficult as it can be to sit up straight when you're pregnant, it's important for your back health. Use pillows as props and invest in just the right size ottoman for your feet. For the long-term, practicing better posture will do a lot more for your back pain than allowing yourself to slouch down in what seems to be the more comfortable manner.

3. Avoid Heavy Lifting and Only Lift The Right Way

Whether pregnant or not, lifting the wrong way can lead to constant aches and pains, particularly in the lower back, but it can also lead to permanent damage. Therefore, as you proceed through your pregnancy, it's very important that you avoid straining those lower back muscles. Ask for help when you need to move something heavy and always use the proper technique, such as bending first at the knees and allowing your entire body to bear the brunt of the lift, not just your spine.

4. Spend Your Pregnancy in Smart Shoes

Because you are pregnant, nobody is going to judge you on your sense of shoe style and the choices you make in footwear go a long way toward helping or harming your back now. Keep the shoes flat, make sure they fit properly, and if needed, soak your feet in warm water and Epson Salt. If at all possible, treat yourself to a foot massage or two over the course of the nine months, too.

5. Ask Friends and Family For Support

Your regular routine of laundry, house cleaning and other activities should be curbed at this time, especially if you're having back pain. Ask people around you to lend a hand, to lift some of the burden off your back and shoulders. Most especially after the baby is born and if you already have other children, even just a little help around the house can go a long way towards saving your aching back.

6. Talk to Your Doctor

Although you're not going to want any strong pharmaceuticals for your back pain because you're pregnant, your doctor may still be able to help. Some back pain treatments, such as physical or hydro-therapy, can provide you with soothing relief, without posing a threat to your baby. Also, it's good for your doctor to know what's going on with your body as your baby grows. Your doctor can advise you on what activity is safe and what isn't, but it's generally a good idea to keep up with regular, moderate exercise, even though you're expecting.

Back pain is prevalent in too many lives today, but sometimes, that pain is preventable. Be very aware of how you treat your back and don't hesitate to reach out for help, be it from your neighbor or your medical team. You already have enough to contend with, and back pain shouldn't interfere with this special time for you.

For more information, contact your local back pain relief clinic.