Should I Exercise When I Have Back Pain?
There is no doubt about it, exercise is a necessity for good health. Exercise and strength training can help build up back muscles and prevent future back pain. But should you start exercising when you are experiencing evenminor back pain?
The answer to this question is yes and no.
With any back pain, it is best to be seen by a doctor or Chiropractor first. If the back pain is severe, your doctor may want to take X-rays to get a better look at the problem. Similarly, a Chiropractor can discover the source of your pain through a series of easy questions an alignment. Often times back pain can be remedied through regular adjustments, which will make it easier to resume regular exercise again.
When it comes to working out, rigorous exercise is very popular right now. Extreme programs like P90X and Insanity have taken the fitness world by storm. However, these programs are not right for everyone, especially those with back problems. It is also a good idea to avoid lifting free weights or exercises that require repetitive bending motions, such as squats.
Also, if you have back pain after your time at the gym, you may want to avoid picking weights off the floor as well as doing too many crunches and low back extensions. To avoid further back pain, make sure you bend with your knees and not your back while performing exercises. Also, be sure to set up your exercise machine or equipment up properly. Just exercising on a machine with the improper seat height can bring on pain the next day.
So what kind of exercises can you do when you are worried about back pain? Try to take your workout to the water. Swimming laps or jogging in the water is a great workout. Water aerobics and water zumba are also a lot of fun and easy on your back. Bicycling on a recumbent bike, or walking on a treadmill can also give your back a rest.
Exercise is an important part of every day life, but the calorie burn should not have to come at the price of back pain. If you suffer from back pain, take it easy and build up strength in your back muscles. Remember to not push yourself or do any exercise that is painful. Be sure to consult your Chiropractor or Physician for tips on how to prevent and treat back pain, and the most appropriate exercise program.