Even Low-Impact Exercise Can Produce Back Pain
By Stephen R. Farris
If you're looking for an exercise that's not so intensified, then you might want to try something a little easier such as yoga. Yoga is a series of gentle movements that basically involve each area of your body, all while stressing breathing techniques. It's a great way to improve your flexibility and tone your body at the same time.
Yoga is usually a good exercise if you have arthritis, joint problems, and are somewhat limited in mobility. Yoga is particularly great if you're over the age of 50 and upwards because it's a low-impact way to stay fit.
But with all exercises, there comes the risk of incurring some type of injury. Even with yoga. A study conducted by Orthopedic Journal of Sports Medicine in November of 2016, reported that injuries in older adults that practice yoga (mainly those 65 and up) have increased, according to their study of participants from 2001 to 2014.
Most of the injuries were associated with the back. According to the study, injuries were the result of improper technique and/or trying to overdo it.
Don't let that discourage you from exercise or trying out yoga. As long as you take it slow and practice the right techniques, along with the cooldown guidelines after exercising, you should be good.
A few tips to keep in mind for back safety include:
- Don't try to twist and extend at the same time. You could end up compressing your intervertebral joints.
- Don't be afraid to use some type of prop if you need to.
- If you're unable to touch your toes, use a yoga belt to help you out.
- Try forward bends sitting versus standing.
- Don't be afraid to ask for help when modifying poses, and if a move is not comfortable, stop doing it.
Again, yoga is a great form of exercise for young and old.
If yoga has you feeling a few aches and pains, take advantage of the chiropractors at The Joint Chiropractic to help you get relief. Drop in anytime -- no appointment is required -- not only for an adjustment that allows you to stand up straight, but advice on nutrition, anxiety, depression, and exercise for your best health.
With more than 500 nationwide locations, there's bound to be one near you!
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Fort Worth, Tex.