One of the most common weak areas I see in new clients is the lower back. Through lack of proper or regular exercise and/or a lifestyle of excessive sitting (at work, in car, etc.), the core generally atrophies and the lower back is the first victim of the reprocusions.
But if it becomes a little more severe? What do you do when a backache sidelines you? Or worse...becomes chronic? Chances are you are going to rest and relax until the pain subsides.
This is probably not your best option.
A study from University of Gothenburg in Sweden suggests that exercise, not inactivity, will help us recover from the back pain quicker.
This is an important finding for millions of people because back pain - whether caused by muscle strain or injury - affects about 80 percent of adult Americans at some time in their lives. As a matter of fact, it is the second leading cause for missed workdays after the common cold.
The researchers found that inactivity can actually undermine the healing process because it "locks up" the body's movement, which can worsen the back pain and slow down recovery.
While our first reaction to the backache may be to sit or lie down and avoid all movement, remaining immobile for an extended period of time will weaken our muscles. And weak muscles will not protect the spine from further injuries.
That's why well-chosen exercises are crucial not only for recovery from backache, but also for protection against future pain.
For best and quickest relief from an aching back, gentle stretching and strengthening exercises - without straining or jolting impacted areas.
There are several types of exercises that can help alleviate the pain while restoring mobility and flexibility to your back better than bed rest, A qualified personal trainer can show you the best moves.
Another benefit of working with a fitness professional is that he or she can make sure you work out safely in a controlled and gradual manner.
There are certain exercises that a person suffering from back pain should avoid. If you go it alone, without proper guidance, you might inadvertently do something that will exacerbate your condition instead of improving it. The back is a very sensitive area so you should not take any risks.
Once the acute pain phase is gone, it's then time for a more advanced program of strengthening and stretching exercises that will make your core muscles and other supporting tissues more resistant.
As always, prevention is the best policy. In other words, strengthen your back muscles so they are less prone to aches, pains and injuries in the future.
