If you've noticed that back pain has been affecting your quality of life, scheduling some appointments with a chiropractor can put you on the fast track to recovery. Although many patients experience pain relief after just one adjustment, the best approach is often to have a series of sessions to allow the chiropractor to fix your issue. In between treatments, you can take charge of your health in a number of ways. No, don't try to adjust your own back—instead, a handful of easy-to-adopt lifestyle changes can help keep your back pain under control between appointments. Here are three important changes to make.

Stop the Slouching

It's easy to get into a habit of slouching at your desk. However, given the length of time you spend sitting during the day, this poor posture can translate into major back pain. When you're seated at work, strive to maintain an upright posture with your legs bent at about 90 degrees, your lower back pushed into the chair's back support and your arms bent and resting comfortably on the armrests when not typing or writing. Imagine an invisible line that holds your spine in an upright position and avoid allowing that line to curve by slouching forward. At home, you might be tempted to curl up on the couch, but it's better to sit upright or use a firm chair while you're watching TV.

Reduce Your Stress

Cutting down on your stress might seem easier said than done, but it's ideal to look at what causes you to feel upset and think of small changes that are possible to make and maintain. Adding more exercise to your daily routine is an effective way to beat stress, and doing so can be even more enjoyable if you commit to working out with a spouse or friend or taking your dog for a daily walk with your children. Scheduling a short relaxation session each day, during which you can do yoga or just read a novel, is also ideal. Even some changes to how you spend your spare time can be beneficial. Do you find that you get worked up reading negative stories in the newspaper? Flip to the comics page instead.

Stop Smoking

Although you're likely already aware of various health issues associated with smoking, there's solid evidence that this habit can also contribute to back pain. Smoking clogs your body's arteries, which means that not enough oxygenated blood will reach areas such as your lower back. The result can often be degeneration of your discs, which causes considerable pain. Whether you try to stop cold turkey or use another method, it's possible that your back pain won't be as severe in time.