As we get older, we run a higher risk of developing debilitating lower back pain. In fact, the risks of lower back pain becoming chronic and leading to some level of disability start running high after age 60. The risks run higher with age for multiple reasons, including injuries from earlier in life, bad posture over many years, years of incorrectly lifting, or a sedentary lifestyle.
Because of the increasing risk of lower back pain as we age, we must do what we can to help prevent or at least mitigate those risks. One might wonder, does regular exercise, aside from promoting a healthy lifestyle, offer relief from lower back pain?
Can Exercise Relieve Lower Back Pain?
Yes, exercise can help relieve your lower back pain. Exercise for many is not enough to relieve lower back pain long term, however. Chiropractic care involves a multi-faceted approach to pain management. It includes the use of massage therapy and spinal manipulation, as well as corrective exercises that must be done with a chiropractor. Lifestyle advice is another important aspect of relieving lower back pain.
There are other options a chiropractor has as part of the care they provide to address lower back pain. One of which is cold laser therapy. This non-invasive, FDA-approved treatment reduces swelling and helps repair tissue in targeted areas. All this and more, combined with exercise, can help many people manage their lower back pain and get more out of their daily lives.
What Are the Best Exercises to Relieve Lower Back Pain?
There are a number of great exercises, particularly stretches, you can do to help temporarily relieve lower back pain. These exercises include:
- Trunk rotations.
- Pelvic tilts.
- Seated hamstring stretches.
Building up the muscles around your abdomen and hamstrings will also help alleviate the tension in your lower back.
Although these exercises can be beneficial when done at home, they might not provide a comprehensive solution, particularly for chronic back pain. A chiropractor can give you a thorough evaluation to help determine the causes of your back pain. They can then design a personalized pain management strategy for you. Keep in mind that not all exercises are suitable for every type of back pain, and there might be other activities more suited to your specific condition.
Total Chiropractic Care Will Work with You to Reduce Lower Back Pain
At Total Chiro, we provide chiropractic care complemented by physical therapy and lifestyle advice to alleviate your chronic pain. Regardless of whether your lower back pain arises from aging, weight issues, or a past accident, the professionals at Total Chiro are here to help. Not only do we provide in-office treatments, but we also offer lifestyle advice and recommended exercises for at-home practice. Contact us today or call for an appointment, and we’ll work with you to find the best treatment for your needs.