Is Exercise Essential for Chronic Back Pain Relief?

If you're seeking chronic back pain relief, exercising might sound like the last thing you'd want to do. With sharp pain, numbness, and/or tingling in your back making it hard to even get through the day, why would you consider physical activity and movements that might aggravate your condition? As counterintuitive as it might seem, however, there are a variety of gentle, low-impact exercises that can actually be a great way to ease chronic back pain and promote overall spine health. Of course, you'll always want to speak with your doctor before beginning any sort of exercise regimen, and exercising under the supervision of a trained expert (such as a physical therapist) is also a great idea. If you're interested in exercise as a method for obtaining back pain relief, you might consider the following options:

·         Physical therapy – Your physical therapist may utilize passive forms of physical therapy (therapies that are done to you) such as ultrasound, TENS, hot/cold therapy, etc. Or, you might be taken through active therapies (or exercises) which can include stretching, strengthening exercises, and low-impact aerobics.

·         Yoga – This form of exercise allows you to gently elongate the muscles in your back, legs, and arms. Yoga also involves focusing on breathing techniques to promote relaxation and attentiveness to your body's movements.

·         Pilates – This exercise program preaches a focus on your core muscles (mainly muscles in the stomach, mid-back, and lower back). These muscles provide balance and support for your spine. Pilates also teaches an awareness of spinal alignment and can be a great way to ease back pain, as well as prevent future flare-ups.

·         Tai Chi – Based on an ancient form of martial arts, Tai Chi emphasizes slow, controlled movements and a calm, tranquil mindset. Through gentle movements, focused breathing, and a meditative state of mind, Tai Chi can help you relax, ease stress, and alleviate back pain.

These are just a few of the conservative treatment methods your doctor might first recommend if you're seeking chronic back pain relief. Even though the word "exercise" might conjure up images of jarring your body around on a treadmill or straining to lift weights, low-impact exercise routines and physical therapy treatments can actually be safe, gentle ways to reduce your symptoms.

To learn more, speak with your doctor to find out if any of the above exercise programs might be right for you. With the right medical advice and care, back pain does not have to be a way of life. Meanwhile, stay in touch with our back pain community and get more tips on exercise trends in Facebook.

*Picture courtesy of Supershock.com: Middle Age Men and Women Yoga.