'How you can implement Exercise as a Natural cure for Low Back Pain'

Exercise And Low Back Pain

Did you know back pain could be considered one of the most insidious of medical conditions by those affected. It seemingly comes out of nowhere, and then strikes like a tornado. It can hit anyone at any time.In fact, 80% of Americans will experience some degree of back pain at one time or another throughout their lives. In actuality, there is little mystery with back pain. It is caused either by lifestyle factors or physical injury and disease. The majority of cases however fall into one of three broad categories:

1. Disc wear problems occur over time; they dry out and degenerate. Poor posture can make them wear out even faster, and they can tear or bulge, irritating the nerves in the back (chronic presentation). A distinction must be made with reference to sciatica. If a person develops leg symptoms with low back pain, it is likely radicular which implicates the nerve root. An orthopedic surgoen would be the best diagnostician in these cases.

2. Sprains and strains can occur from too much bending, twisting, or lifting and from physical activity, accidents, or just an awkward movement (acute presentation).

3. Degenerative conditions which are often part of the aging process or trauma that can cause misalignment or fracture (chronic).

The mysterious pain that seems to strike an otherwise healthy back usually is the result of long-term poor posture, lack of exercise, improper body mechanics and years of sitting. A healthy back is meant to be supported by a system of bones, muscles and ligaments, but when we allow our posture to slouch, we out added stress on the spinal structures. Eventually, the spine takes on an unnatural curve, and back pain, numbness or tingling in the legs may evovle.

Maintenance of the back's three natural curves helps keep your spine properly aligned. Your low back is the the cervical curve. Healthy movement with these three natural curves aligned is the key to preventing injury. Most people suffer pain in their lower back, which includes the lumbar (below waist) and the sacral (above the tailbone) levels of the spine.

In a report from the Agency for Health Care Policy and Research (AHCPR) in 1994, the best recommended treatment (non-pharmacological) was physical activity. Instaed of bed rest, the report concluded that most people with acute back pain should exercise. They should practice endurance training such as walking, swimming, or stationary biking for 20-30 minutes daily starting within two weeks of the pain's onset. (Acute refers to a condition lasting less than three months; after that it is chronic). The New England Journal of Medicine published a Finnish study that suggested that as a two days of bed-rest can actually slow recovery from low back pain, due to the deconditioning effect.

I hope you will consider Exercise for low back pain as a way of relief and a preventative approach.

Have a happy and healthy day!

Sincerely Yours In Health & Fitness,

Natalie Pyles

Medical Exercise Specialist, Fitness & Weight-loss expert, Author and Speaker