Exercise & Fitness Articles

Lower back pain exercises are very important for the treatment of back pain and the strengthening of the back muscles. The lower back pain exercises recommended by one?s orthopedic surgeon or the physiotherapist need to be carried out regularly and in the correct manner in order to derive maximum benefit.

Walking, swimming, biking and aerobic exercises are commonly recommended lower back pain exercises. However, doctors recommend different exercises in accordance to the condition of a patient. The exercises recommended in the initial and final stages of the treatment also vary.

In the initial stages of the treatment, doctors recommend exercises involving upward and downward movements of ankles. Lower back pain exercises, such as the abdominal contraction, wall squats, heel raises and straight leg raises, involve tightening of the abdominal muscles while moving the knees or heels.

In the intermediate treatment program, one can perform lower back pain exercises, such as the single knee to chest stretch, the hamstring stretch and the lumbar stabilization exercise with the Swiss ball. It is important to ensure that the abdominal muscles remain contracted during each exercise. For this, one needs to lie on his/her back with knees bent and hands resting below ribs.

The advanced lower back pain exercise program involves exercises such as the Hip Flexor Stretch, the Piriformis stretch and the lumbar stabilization exercises with the Swiss ball. Some exercises strain the lower back and should be avoided. These include the hip twists, the hurdlers stretch, sit-ups with straight legs and any kind of stretching exercise that requires quick and bouncy movements. Physical activities, such as swimming and walking, are very good for the strengthening of the back. One must seek proper guidance before taking up any exercise for the treatment of back-related problems.