Stronger Muscles, Less Back Pain
By Donna Stark
What have you done so far to combat that pain in your back? Have you turned to heating pads? Pain relievers? Special stretches? Did any of them help? If not, you may want to give something else a try. Something you may have inadvertently overlooked. What is it? Well, if your back always seems to be in pain, it may be time to work on the strength of your core muscles. That's right! Having a strong set of core muscles can make a huge impact in how you feel. By throwing in a handful of simple exercises each week, you can easily increase mobility and decrease your back pain.
Why Strong Core Muscles Is Key
The spine is the centerpiece of the human body. It protects the central nervous system and serves as an expressway for the body's nerve impulses. If you don't maintain the health of your spine, you will experience an increase in pain throughout your entire body, including your back! And that is why it is so important to strengthen your core muscles. Your core muscles support and stabilize the spine. When they are not adequately strengthened, your spine and back muscles may experience increased levels of stress and strain which, unfortunately, will turn into heightened levels of pain and discomfort for you.
How to Improve Core Strength
A great way to build core muscle strength is to exercise daily and strength train a couple of times a week. If you don't have a gym membership, don't worry! These exercises can be done at home and many of them do not require any special equipment. But if you would like to hit the gym, be our guest! There are plenty of machines and classes, such as yoga, swimming, and Pilates, that will help you reach your goals faster than you can imagine! An added bonus of improved core strength is that in addition to helping eliminate your back pain, it will provide plenty of other health benefits as well. A stronger core has been shown to increase energy, mobility, and flexibility.
You should also start focusing on your posture as well because poor posture is often caused by weak core muscles. By focusing on how well you hold and carry your body throughout the day, your core muscles will continue to be strengthened and toned!
Stronger Muscles, Less Back Pain
Regardless of how you decide to improve core strength, keep it simple. There are hundreds of different core exercises that require no weight equipment and only need a few feet of space. Find a routine and stick to it. You will be surprised by how quickly your pain disappears!
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in La Verne, Calif.