Simple Exercises for Arthritis Back Pain Relief
By Stephen R. Farris
Arthritis pain in your back can literally bring your life to a halt. I mean, it can be so severe at times that you don't feel like moving at all. The only relief you feel at the time is by lying still. Unfortunately, that's not good for the rest of your body if you're lying on your back all the time. You have to get up and move, even if it hurts.
You do have a few options to choose from in treating your arthritis back pain. One is to do nothing (not recommended) and try to live with it. Second, try to relieve the pain with over-the-counter medication (OTCs), but there is a chance they could become addictive. Thirdly, you could choose to do non-impact types of exercise to help loosen up your muscles and joints.
Try Some Side Stretching
Side stretching exercises are relatively easy to do. Basically you're standing upright with your hand on one side of your hip and the other hand/arm resting along the other side. Movement involves keeping your posture straight and leaning to the resting hand/arm side for about 10 repetitions. Then switch over to the other side. You can also add a lightweight dumbbell (optional) to the routine. Rules to remember: don't slouch and don't bend your knees.
"W" Stretching
For "W" stretching, stand up straight with your elbows bent out from your sides, "jazz" hands up (palms facing forward with fingers slightly spread out.) The movement for this exercise is backwards, flexing your shoulder blades. Do 10 reps, holding the movement for approximately three seconds per rep.
The Tried and True: Walking
Out of all the exercises you can do for arthritis back pain, walking remains the "tried and true" of them all. Just make sure you're wearing comfortable footwear, walk lightly, avoid hard surfaces, and practice good posture.
Tai Chi Or Yoga?
For folks suffering from arthritis back pain, tai chi is better. While yoga is great, most of the movements in tai chi involve waist movement, which can help stretch out the spine. Another plus, tai chi doesn't stress out your joints and helps improve your balance.
The first thing you should do when it comes to arthritis back pain, overall back pain, or neck and joint pain, is to visit with your local chiropractor, such as the ones at The Joint Chiropractic at Westheimer and Gessner here in Houston. No appointment is necessary to consult with any one of their professional, licensed doctors of chiropractic, and you don't have to worry about dealing with your insurance. With more than 600 nationwide locations, The Joint Chiropractic is closer than you think to get the pain relief you deserve so you can go back to enjoying the healthy, active lifestyle you're accustomed to.
To learn more about your health, wellness and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Houston, Tex.