Exercise for people with a bad back

Back pain is one of the most common complaints among modern people. It is estimated that more than 80% of Americans suffers from back pain at some point in their lives. Back pain typically originates from the muscles, nerves, bones, joints or other structures in the spine. The fifth most common reason for physician visits is actually acute lower back pain, also known as lumbago. Most people tend to avoid being physically active if they have any kind of problems with back. Most of the individuals are managing their symptoms with pain medications and painkillers. However, this is not the best possible solution, since the medications only provide relief from the symptoms but do not address the root of the problem. The more appropriate approach to the problem of back pain involves a regular physical exercise as a means of treatment and prevention.

Exercise for injured ligaments

The most appropriate type of exercise for bad back should always address the causes of patient’s back pain. Sometimes, the back pain occurs as a result of injuries to the ligament. If this is the case, people are advised to practice gentle stretches by pulling the knees to the chest as they draw the abdominals in. This exercise is repeated 3 times a day for up to 10 repetitions.

Exercise for strains

Strains are usually caused by tearing of the muscles that occurs with overstretching. In most cases, the muscles of the lower back are affected, as the injury occurs when people bend over to pick something up. Most of these strains can completely heal, and people are advised to exercise the back as with the injured ligaments – by pulling the knees to the chest while drawing the abdominals in.

Exercise for degenerative disc disease

Degenerative disc disease occurs with age and the goal of the treatment is to restore the circulation to the muscles and soft tissues found in the proximity of the degenerated disc. Simple stretches or yoga postures are great to improve blood and lymph circulation all over the body.Exercise for spinal stenosis

Spinal stenosis is narrowing of the spinal cord that causes pressure on the spinal cord and results in pain. Best exercises to alleviate this pain include bending forward and rounding the neck. The cat stretch exercise is a great example that can bring a lot of relief. It is performed by supporting the body on the hands and knees and rounding the spine while rolling the hips under.