Lumbar Stretch Exercise
The best back exercise that I have been
taught to do for lower back pain, is lumbar stretch exercise,
sometimes referred to as lumbar
stabilization exercise.
When done properly, lower back
exercises can provide a gentle stretching for the back muscles that
help support
the
lower spine.
And, over time...
Lumbar exercise may help strengthen back muscles
and provide better flexibility in the low back and hips.
In my case, lumbar exercise provide
considerable back pain relief,
as well as associated leg
and hip pain.
As
an added
benefit, lumbar stretch exercise
also helps me with my goal to achieve good posture and
reduces instances of morning
back pain
associated with a stiff
lower back.
Lumbar Stabilization Exercise
As suggested to me by physical
therapists and chiropractors,
I only do a few repetitions of each
lumbar exercise at a time. However, in order to maintain
good back health, I am vigilant about doing them on a regular basis.
Once given the go-ahead to exercise, start
slow. And, to avoid risk of a sore tailbone, I advise...
...that you make use of an exercise mat when doing
lumbar stretch exercise on the floor.
Knee Fold
This
exercise can also be performed using both knees at the same time.
- Lie on your back with knees bent.
- Exhale while lifting one knee toward you
chest.
- Inhale returning your knee to the starting
position, keeping
abdominals flat, and navel to the spine.
- Repeat several times and then repeat with the
opposite leg.
Lumbar Vertebrae
Stretch
- Lie on your back with knees bent.
- Pull in and tighten your stomach muscles
while
flattening your lower
back to the floor.
- Hold for a few seconds. Repeat
several
times.
Stabilizer
Bridge
- Lie on your back with knees
bent.
- Keep your arms flat on the floor, running
parallel to
your body.
- Using your upper body for support, raise your
hips off the floor. With your abdomen muscles pulled in
you should have a level "plank" running from your shoulders to your
knees.
- Hold for a few seconds. Repeat
several times.
More
lumbar stretch
stabilization exercise...
Keep in mind...
Although lumbar exercise may help relieve pain,
eliminating what causes lower back pain symptoms may be the most
important factor in long-term relief.
Often, something as simple as
improving
sitting posture, using lumbar support products...
...or even implementing proper desk ergonomics,
can
make a huge difference.
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