Back pain is a very common condition, and it affects many people every day. If you are experiencing low back pain, you are not alone. An estimated 75 to 85 percent of Americans will experience some form of back pain during their lifetime. Back pain can be quite debilitating.

Pain in the lower back is particularly common, although it can be felt anywhere along the spine. The condition isn’t usually serious and normally improves within a few days, weeks or months, depending on the severity and cause. But back pain can be extremely debilitating to live with, making it difficult to complete basic day-to-day tasks.

If you have back pain, it may seem tempting to lie in bed or curl up on the sofa and watch Netflix until the pain has passed. That’s actually the number one mistake most people make while experiencing back pain. But actually, not moving can cause stagnation and the muscles of the back can become even stiffer and make the pain worse. It is kind of counterintuitive to move while your back is killing you with pain. But it is the best thing for you.

So keeping active, moving and practicing gentle, PT style exercises will help to relieve the symptoms and speed up the recovery process. During the painful period, it is recommended to do bodyweight exercises. Be mindful of your breathing while doing the exercises for the back. Watch your posture closely and the muscle activation during the movement. By stretching and exercising you are strengthening the muscles and improving flexibility.

So stay active while you’re having back pain. Sometimes pain is so severe that even breathing hurts, making slight moments hurt. I understand, but you got to keep moving. That’s the only way to get better.

For people with back pain, swimming can be particularly effective. The resistance of the water supports the body weight, thus reducing stress on the joints and spine. It’s very important to swim using proper techniques. Poor technique may make your lower back pain worse. Also, it’s a good idea to do gentle yoga. Sun salutation, for example, is excellent for improving back health. But again keep in mind, to modify not to trigger more pain, watch your posture closely and breathe deeply and calmly.

Remember, when you’re having upper or lower back pain not moving is the worst thing for your back pain. Seek professional help see a physical therapist, massage therapist, acupuncturist or a chiropractor so you can get proper guidance. But most importantly keep moving.

Here is a link to a great guide for lower back: MyBodyLife

And another link to what happens when you don’t do your stretches: haykzar.com

Thanks for reading..

Feel better..

Hayk Zar LMT

PS. Call or text 732-766-0897 to check availabilities and to book your appointment with Hayk, for your clinical massage therapy session and get 20 to 60 % relief from your lower back pain today.