Three Exercises That Can Often Help Your Back Pain

If you've been suffering from chronic or even intermittent back pain, one of the first steps you should take is to contact a chiropractor in your city and schedule an assessment. During this appointment, the chiropractor will assess your body to determine the reasons for your discomfort. He or she will also perform an adjustment and schedule a handful of followup adjustments that can help you feel better. If you wish to take a proactive approach to your health, you can do so through exercise. While not every exercise is conducive to back pain, several types of exercise can reduce your discomfort.

Go For A Walk

Walking is arguably the simplest way to exercise, and the good news for back pain sufferers is that this activity can speed up the healing process. Walking has a number of circulatory and muscle benefits -- as you walk, your body's circulatory system works harder to provide nutrients to your back, while you'll also loosen tight muscles and improve your flexibility through this simple form of cardio. It's impossible to discount walking's emotional health benefits, too. The hormone release that occurs during your walk can reduce the anxiety and even depression that you're suffering as a result of your back pain.

Take The (Swimming) Plunge

Packing your swimsuit and towel and heading to your local athletic center can lead to a reduction in your back pain. The stretching movements that you perform as you swim can improve your muscles' range of motion, which is ideal if tight back muscles have been contributing to your discomfort. Additionally, the water that surrounds your body ensures that your workout won't have a jarring impact that can aggravate your body. Check with your chiropractor to see which swimming strokes are best for your specific physical condition. In many cases, chiropractors will recommend strokes that don't require a trunk rotation.

Try Some Stretches

Performing a series of back stretches in the comfort of home can improve your mobility and lessen your discomfort. There are many suitable stretches for your back, but the knee-to-chest stretch is ideal. Lie on the floor on your back with your legs straight. Bend one leg and, without lifting your head, grasp behind the knee with both hands. Slowly bring the knee as close to your chest as you can, hold it for about 30 seconds and then gently release it. Repeat the stretch with the other leg to keep your body in balance.

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