Exercise for Back Pain

Work it out

Research suggests that around 80% of people experience back pain at some time in their lives. Types of pain vary by location (upper, middle, and lower back pain) and by cause. Some causes of back pain include arthritis, muscle or nerve problems, degenerative disc disorders, and injury. While pain medications are often the first choice to relieve back pain, knowing the cause of the pain can help determine the most effective options for pain management and relief.

Exercise to Relieve Back Pain

Method

• Under most circumstances, regular, non-strenuous exercise such as walking should be incorporated into your back pain treatment. Talk to your doctor about creating an exercise program tailored to your specific pain, which may include stretching, yoga, and other no impact movements.

Why It Works

It is now believed that strict bed rest, which used to be standard care for back pain, actually does more harm than good. Lack of movement and exercise can slow recovery and lead to more problems as the back muscles become weaker. Controlled exercise helps alleviate stiffness and muscle weakness, and circulate nutrients to the tissues in the back to improve the health of discs, muscles, ligaments and joints.

Precautions

It is extremely important to consult your healthcare provider before you begin an exercise regimen. The wrong types of exercise, or exercising too strenuously or too often, could cause serious damage to the back.

More Remedies

• Click here for all Back Pain remedies