In the past two weeks we have witnessed record-breaking athleticism, including memorable performances by Michael Phelps and Natalie Coughlin. As any dedicated Olympics fan will tell you though, racking up all those hours watching sports on TV is almost as hard as being an Olympian.

The 2008 Summer Olympic Games in Beijing are over, and the long wait for the 2010 Games has begun. In the past two weeks we have witnessed record-breaking athleticism, including memorable performances by Michael Phelps and Natalie Coughlin. As any dedicated Olympics fan will tell you though, racking up all those hours watching sports on TV is almost as hard as being an Olympian.

World-class spectatorship often has a cost though. If your late night couch sitting heroics have left you with a sore back, then you can begin your recovery by following these simple steps:

• Avoid sitting for long periods or lifting anything heavy
• When resting, lie flat on your back with your legs raised, or lie on your side in the fetal position
• During the day, get up from sitting every few hours to walk around and arch your back
• Stretch your back often. One good way to stretch is by lying on your stomach, propping yourself up on your elbows, extending your back, and then slowly straightening your elbows to further extend the back until you feel a stretch (similar to a cobra pose in yoga). This counteracts the seated, hunched position you’ve been in for days while watching the Games.
• If needed, over-the-counter pain relievers can also be beneficial.

Although Olympic spectator-type back pain should go away within a few days, if your back pain is severe or doesn't improve after three days, you should call your doctor.

Related Links:

• Video: Treating Back Pain (Source: illumistream health)
• Fact Sheet: The Back (Source MedicineNet.com)
• 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing (Source: official NBC site)