Exercises to Relieve Back Pain: Insights from a Perth Chiropractor
Back pain can be incredibly disruptive, making even simple tasks feel like monumental challenges. If you’re one of the many Perth residents dealing with this issue, you might be wondering what you can do to ease the discomfort. As a local chiropractor, I’ve helped numerous patients manage their back pain effectively, and in this blog, I’d like to share a few exercises that you can do at home to help alleviate back pain. Please remember, before starting any new exercise program, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare provider, like your local chiropractor or a physiotherapist, to ensure these exercises are suitable for you.
1. Cat-Cow Stretch
This yoga-inspired movement increases flexibility in the spine and can relieve tension in the lower back.
Start on your hands and knees with your wrists directly under your shoulders and your knees under your hips. Begin by slowly arching your back, pulling your stomach towards the sky (the ‘cat’ pose). Hold for a few seconds, then lower your stomach towards the ground, raising your head in the process (the ‘cow’ pose). Repeat for 10-15 rounds.
2. Bird-Dog Exercise
This exercise strengthens your lower back and abdominal muscles, promoting a healthy, stable spine.
Begin on all fours, just as with the Cat-Cow. Keeping your spine neutral, slowly extend one leg behind you while reaching forward with the opposite arm. Hold for a couple of seconds before returning to the starting position, then repeat on the other side. Aim for 10-15 repetitions on each side.
3. Pelvic Tilts
Pelvic tilts can help loosen your back muscles and alleviate discomfort.
Lay flat on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor. Flatten your back against the floor by tightening your abdominal muscles and tilting your pelvis up slightly. Hold for up to 10 seconds, then release. Repeat 10-15 times.
4. Knee-to-Chest Stretch
This stretch helps to improve the flexibility of your lower back.
Start by lying on your back with your knees bent. Use both hands to pull one knee close to your chest, keeping the other foot flat on the ground. Hold the stretch for about 30 seconds, then slowly release it. Repeat with the other leg. Do this 2-3 times on each side.
5. Child’s Pose
A restful yoga pose, the Child’s Pose can stretch your lower back and relieve tension.
Kneel on a comfortable surface, touch your big toes together and spread your knees slightly wider than your hips. As you exhale, lower your torso between your knees. Extend your arms along the floor in front of you, resting your forehead on the ground. Stay in this pose for up to a few minutes, depending on your comfort level.
6. Seated Spinal Twist
This exercise can aid in releasing tension in the back and improve spinal flexibility.
Sit up straight on the ground with both legs extended in front of you. Bend your right knee and cross it over the left leg, placing your right foot flat on the floor. Place your right hand behind you for support, inhale and raise your left arm. As you exhale, twist your body to the right, bringing your left elbow to the outside of your right knee. Hold the twist for 20-30 seconds, then repeat on the other side.
7. Bridge Pose
The Bridge Pose is excellent for strengthening the lower back and glute muscles.
Lay flat on your back with your knees bent and your feet flat on the floor. Keep your arms at your sides, palms down. Push your feet and palms into the floor while lifting your hips towards the ceiling. Keep your thighs parallel to each other and your knees directly above your ankles. Hold for 20-30 seconds, then slowly lower your hips back to the floor. Repeat this 10-15 times.
8. Quadruped Limb Raises
This exercise helps strengthen the muscles of the back and abdomen, promoting stability.
Start on all fours with your wrists directly under your shoulders and your knees under your hips. Keeping your back straight, simultaneously raise and extend your left arm and right leg until they’re in line with your body. Hold for a few seconds, then lower back to the starting position. Repeat with the right arm and left leg. Aim for 10-15 repetitions on each side.
9. Prone Back Extensions
Back extensions can help improve posture and relieve lower back pain.
Lay flat on your stomach with your arms extended in front of you. Simultaneously lift your arms, legs, and chest off the floor, keeping your neck straight. Hold this position for a few seconds, then lower back down. Repeat 10-15 times.
Remember, consistency is key when it comes to exercises for back pain relief. Practice these exercises regularly, but always listen to your body. If an exercise causes pain or discomfort, stop immediately. If you’re dealing with persistent back pain, reach out to a professional healthcare provider like your local Perth chiropractor. With a personalised plan and professional guidance, you can effectively manage your back pain and enhance your overall well-being.
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