Back pain - the best exercise to relieve lower backache revealed
BACK pain could be prevented by changing your diet, or by swapping your sleep position. But, this is the best exercise for reducing, or even preventing, lower backache, it’s been revealed.
Exercise is the best way to combat back pain
Back pain is very common, and usually improves within a few weeks or months, according to the NHS.
Pain in the lower back is the most common type of back pain.
It’s usually nothing to worry about, and will get better by itself over time.
But, you can speed up your recovery by making some small lifestyle changes.
One of those lifestyle changes is to do more swimming, it’s been claimed.
Back pain symptoms: Best exercise to prevent lower backache - swimming
Swimming could help to relieve your back pain as it’s a low impact exercise that won’t cause further damage to muscles, according to A.Vogel’s Muscles and Joints Advisor, Earle Logan.
Swimming works all of your muscles, without overdoing any particular muscle group, he said.
The exercise isn’t weight bearing, so it’s a great way for people with back pain to get active.
“Many people extol the wonders of swimming and other types of water therapy in the treatment of lower back pain,” said Logan.
“The water offers enough resistance to make the exercise worthwhile, helping to build strength.
“Remember, exciting as water exercises are, reign in your enthusiasm by lowering yourself into and raising yourself out of the water very gently.
“Jumping or diving in is perhaps not the best plan, and leave those somersaults for twinge-free days.
“If you are training to be an elite athlete, then your body will be put under much more strain, and you should seek the advice of your trainer to ensure that you do not incur injuries.”
You could ease your lower back pain by walking (or marching) through the water, said Logan.
It’s a great way of stretching out stiffness, while also improving your posture.
Alternatively, try raising your legs underwater.
Bring your knee up to your chest, and then extend out the leg so it’s 90° to your body - or even further if you’re able.
Doing these stretches will improve your flexibility, and you’ll be able to stretch further, he said.
If you suffer from back pain, try using hot or cold compression packs to reduce painful symptoms, said the NHS.
If you’re overweight or obese, you’re more likely to develop back pain.
Try eating a healthy balanced diet, and regularly exercising, to lower your risk of the condition.