If you’ve suffered from chronic back pain before, then you?ll know how excruciating it can be. Multiple studies have shown that yoga can actually help relieve the pain by emphasizing stretching, flexibility and strength. In fact, some studies have shown that people who took yoga or stretching classes are twice as likely to cut back on pain medication, compared to those who managed symptoms on their own.

This is why we bring to you an article over at Breaking Muscle, which has some tips to help cure your troublesome back:

1. Practice Controlled Breathing

Hands down breathing is yoga?s silver bullet.?The practice of yoga requires the breath, the body, and the mind to do the same thing at the same time in a conscious way.?This integration affects us mentally and physically. Slowing down the breath and breathing more deeply relaxes mental and physical tension. This is helpful for anyone dealing with anxiety or stress-related back problems.

2. Practice Spinal Flexion And Extension

Another awesome thing about yoga is that it deals with both the flexion and extension of the spine.?It expands our spine?s ability to curve forward, as well as backward. This type of movement lubricates the discs between the vertebrae giving them the nutrients they need.

Remember to get clearance from your doctor before you start a new fitness regime, especially if you?re susceptible to suffering pain. Once you get the green light, then check out the article above and try some soothing yoga movements. Gradually increase the intensity of each exercise by holding them for longer amounts of time.

If you?re not comfortable doing yoga on your own, then join a class where a professional yoga teacher can show you how to do each movement safely. Also, be sure to pick the right class ? your level of physical activity should determine whether you start at level 1 or 2.