Article by: Asma Kassam, Burnaby Vancouver Kinesiologist/Personal Trainer specializing in Fitness and Active Rehab – back pain
Below are 4 helpful stretches to do daily for optimal back health. Hold each stretch for 1 minute while relaxing the body and breathing.
Remember stretching shouldn’t be painful. If your muscles and fascia are tight ease off the stretch until only mild discomfort.
If low back pain persists, you may need core stabilization exercises.
If sciatic pain is an issue for you, spend extra time on Stretch #4.
To see our updated and more recently recommended stretches, please see this video blog: Stretches for Low Back Pain
If you feel as though you have tried everything, please take a look at #4 on this article as it may provide some insight: 5 Pivotal Pieces for your Health
If you did read the above article, you will also understand that our body goes through a lot over the years, and various compensatory patterns coupled with general aging can greatly affect our back health overtime.We have found sometimes simply monitoring our clients’ gait pattern and making these changes has helped them mitigate ongoing back pain. Read: 2 Things to Keep in Mind When Walking
Stretch #1: Crossover Leg Stretch
Stretch #2: Hamstring Stretch with Band/Belt
Stretch #3: Childspose Yoga Stretch
Stretch #4: Figure 4 Stretch (Piriformis Stretch)
For more information and essential exercises that often times go under the radar, check out our You Tube Page