Doctor offers simple tips to relieve back pain

LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- Low back pain is the leading cause of disability worldwide. An orthopedic surgeon offers some simple tips to relieve back pain.

Dr. Rad Payman says stress and poor posture lead to tight muscles that compress the spine.

How we sleep is huge factor, and stomach sleeping is the worst. Payman says to avoid pain, sleep on your back, but a pillow needs to be placed under the knees to give your spine the curve that it needs to relieve pain.

Payman recommends people suffering with acute pain alternate between hot and cold therapy to relieve inflammation and pain. He's also a big fan of yoga as long as you protect your back.