If you stay within your comfortable zone an easy stretching routine may be a viable method to relieve back discomfort. As your body becomes accustomed to a new exercise routine it could temporarily increase pain. However it will subside quickly.
Stretching for Lower Back Health: Essential Exercises for Flexibility
Start on all fours, placing your hands in a straight line, shoulder-width apart. Bring your hips forward while you stretch backward, arching the lower back (cat stretch).
Stretching the muscles of the lower back can relieve back pain and prevent re-injury. It can also improve posture, which is vital for overall health and preventing dowager’s hump.
Place your feet flat on the floor with your knees bent, and feet flat. Then, lift one of your legs to your chest until you feel a stretch that is comfortable. This stretch targets the piriformis muscles that can alleviate lower back pain and tightness in the buttocks area.
If you’re flection sensitive, which means that leaning forward can cause discomfort, start the stretch with a small gentle arc. You can increase the amount as your back gets stronger. Always practice these stretches on an area that is clean and solid. If you feel any discomfort, stop the exercise and seek out your doctor or physical therapist. In general, you should aim to do at minimum 60 seconds of stretching per day to reap the greatest benefits.
Targeted Hip Stretches to Alleviate Lower Back Discomfort
Stretching your hips can help loosen the lower spine. Jamie Costello M.S.C., fitness director at the Pritikin Longevity Center and Spa in Miami says that adding hip-opening exercises to your stretching routine can improve your posture and improve the mobility of your spine.
One of the most well-known back stretch exercises is the cat-cow that gently increases flexibility and mobility in the spine, while also targeting the muscles and joints in the shoulders and hips. This exercise is safe for a majority of people and can be done in a sitting position, but be sure you keep the stretches within an acceptable range.
Relax on your back with both legs bent. Rest the lower part of each leg on a flat surface to provide support. Slowly move your right leg to meet the outside of your left knee while lowering your head towards the floor.
Outer Thigh Stretching: Understanding its Importance for Overall Flexibility
Stretch your thighs outwards to loosen your hips and lower spine are tight. The muscles of the outer thigh, known as abductors, help you move your legs to the side while stabilizing the pelvis. Lying on your back, you can interlace your fingers behind your knee and raise the leg toward your upper body until you feel a soft stretch on the back of that leg. Keep it for 30 to 60 seconds, then repeat with the other leg.
This exercise is easy and targets the front of the upper thigh. It may be uncomfortable at the beginning, but don’t push yourself past what feels comfortable. If you experience sharp discomfort or tingling, stop the exercise immediately and speak with your doctor.
If you have trouble finding time to exercise in a timely manner, this video provides an easy routine that is completed in just under a minute. Cassy Ho’s catchy music and quirky personality make this workout enjoyable to follow along with.
Strengthening and Flexibility: Targeting the Arms, Triceps, and Lower Back
Stretching your back muscles is as important as stretching your arms to reach for your wallet or tie your bra. Experts warn against over-stretching or stretching the same muscle group over and over again. This can damage the delicate muscles. In addition, bouncing during stretching can hurt the muscles, so you should be sure to be gentle and steady as suggested by Litzy.
To stretch your triceps muscles, lift one arm over your head, and then point your fingertips toward your shoulder blades. Hold the back of the elbow with the other hand. Hold this position until you feel a slight stretch across your shoulders and chest. Repeat on the other side of your body. This stretch can improve circulation in your wrists and forearms. It also helps with your posture. The deltoid muscle is a triangular muscle on the upper portion of your shoulders. this stretch can help to loosen it up and ease some lower back pain too.