Exercising for Back Pain

Back pain is a common complaint among people of any age. While refraining from strenuous activities might be the answer in the short term, when done for more than a few days, it can actually undermine healing. Whether the back pain is acute or chronic, exercise can play an important role in easing your pain.

Strengthening certain muscle groups can help keep your back strong and improve your posture. Below are some of the most important muscles to focus on.

Hamstrings – these muscles at the back of your leg help correct posture when you are standing or sitting. They also support the gluteus muscles and the hip flexors. Strengthening your hamstrings can minimize stress on the lower back.

Piriformis – this muscle runs from the back of the thigh to the base of your spine. When this muscle is tight, it can lead to sciatica-like pain.

Psoas Major – this muscle is attached to the front of the lower spine and can affect mobility in the lower back. If this muscle is tight, it could make it hard for you to stand for an extended period or kneel on both knees.

Gluteus Muscles – this group of muscles in your buttocks supports flexibility in your hips and pelvis.

Don’t forget to stretch! Practically everyone can benefit from stretching the muscles, ligaments, and tendons in your back. Reduced motion in your back and spinal column can sometimes make back pain worse, which is why stretching daily to ensure flexibility in key muscle groups is extremely important. 

If you would like to learn more about back pain or exercises that can help strengthen your back, contact our physical medicine and rehabilitation specialist at Carolina Orthopaedic & Sports Medicine Center by calling (704) 325-4336 or click here to schedule an appointment online.