Exercises for Lower Back Pain

When you feel some kind of pain in your lower back, it is common to give it a rest. But a prolonged rest can in fact do more hurt than good. By having a regimen of controlled lower back pain exercise, you can enhance the flow of oxygen and nutrient-rich blood to the joints and muscles in the back. This will eventually lessen the discomforts in your back.

Before choosing a new exercise routine, it is important to consult an expert. Here are some recommended exercises.

Stretching. Consistent stretching is the key for an effective lower back exercise. You must stretch not only your lower back but also your hamstring, thigh muscles, and gluteus muscles, as they play important roles in keeping a healthy back. As an example, a tight piriformis muscles can put pressure on the sciatic nerve resulting in an excruciating pain on the back of your leg up to your lower back. Take note: do not bounce while stretching.

McKenzie Exercises. McKenzie exercise is an exercise treatment for chronic lower back pain. The focus of these exercises is to extend the spine which in turn lessens its compression, thus, freeing the back from pain. These exercises should only be done when recommended by an expert. This should be done so you can completely understand the expected symptom reaction and make sure they are apt for your condition.

Abdominal Care. People experiencing lower back pain should not only focus on strengthening their back but rather, strengthening the whole midsection of the body. Excess weight around the stomach strains the back muscles. When the abdominal muscles are strengthened, they can be of greater help to the back muscles. As a result, back muscles are less strained and pain can be prevented.

Aerobic Exercises. Aerobic exercises focus more on weight control – which is also important in having a healthy back. These exercises also promote better circulation and increased flexibility of the back muscles. But it should be considered that the exercises should be low impact, like walking to avoid further muscle strain.

Lumbar Stabilization Exercises. This type of exercise enables the patient to locate the spine’s neutral position. The patient is then taught postural exercises for him to be able to recreate the posture where he feels most comfortable.

Other Control Exercises. With the aid of a professional, these exercises aim to teach the patient good postural habits before moving onto more complicated techniques. Patients learn how to trigger specific muscles by themselves to create a more stable midsection.

These are just a few of the lower back pain exercise you can try. Remember that exercises should not be painful. If your body aches during exercise, then chances are you are doing the exercise wrong. Always employ proper breathing techniques and stay hydrated throughout the duration of the exercise.