Stomach Back And Leg Pain

Dr. Julie Mercy J DavidErasmus Mundus Master in Adapted Physical Activity, MPT, BPTh/BPTPhysiotherapist

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Herniated disc 1. Spinal decompression how it helps – spinal decompression should be the very first thing you do to treat a herniated or bulging disc because it essentially creates space between your vertebrae, and thus takes pressure off the discs. How to do it – use a bar or the top of a door (or anything you can hang from) and allow your body to “just hang”. – hang for 30 seconds and do 3 sets. – release very slowly from this so as not to cause any spasms. ** this should not cause any pain. If you feel pain during it is not a good one for you. In that case, stop and try some of the other exercises below instead. 2. Standing extension how it helps – this standing extension helps reverse what you do on a daily basis (hunching)… since most bulging discs and herniated discs are caused by poor posture and repeated flexion of the spine (esp bending fwd in bad posture), this stretch helps push the disc back to neutral position. How to do it – begin this exercise by standing up with good posture. Now take both hands and place them on both sides of your lower back. Now with the help of your hands push your pelvis forward and extend your spine back. Follow the extension with your neck so that you end up facing the ceiling. – start with 10 repetitions and do 2-3 sets. – this one is particularly great to do when you need a break from sitting at your desk. ** this should not cause any pain. If you feel pain during it is not a good one for you. In that case, stop and try some of the other exercises below instead. 3. Half cobra pose (prone lumbar extension) how it helps – the half cobra stretch helps to push the disc material back towards the center of the inter-vertebral disc to allow for improved healing. The goal of repeated lower back extension is the “centralization of symptoms”, which basically means pain that travels down the affected leg to the foot should come back up closer to the low back – which will in turn alleviate the pain. How to do it – begin this exercise by lying on your stomach (prone position) and slowly prop yourself up on your elbows while keeping your hips in contact with the floor. – hold the prop-up position for 10-15 seconds before returning to the prone position (lying face down). – gradually increase to holding the end position for 30 seconds. Aim for 10 repetitions of this stretch. ** initially, you may not be able to tolerate this position very well, so make sure you start slowly and carefully. If there’s any pain, try a different exercise instead. 4. Full cobra pose (advanced extension) how it helps – this stretch is based on the same principle as the half cobra pose above. This advanced extension helps to push disc material back towards the center of the intervertebral disc, with the goal of alleviating pain symptoms. How to do it – once you’ve mastered the half cobra pose, you can increase the difficulty by moving to the advanced version of this stretch. Begin this exercise by lying on your stomach in the prone position (lying facing down) and slowly press up on your hands while keeping your pelvis in contact with the floor and lower back relaxed. – hold the prop-up position for 10 seconds. Aim for 10 repetitions of this stretch. – eventually try to hold this pose for longer if it feels good (20-30 seconds). ** if you feel pain during this exercise, it is not a good one for you. In that case, stop and try some of the other exercises instead. 5. Cat-cow how it helps – this is one of the most popular herniated disc exercises. By combining two yoga poses, the cat-cow stretch can help to relieve pressure on the herniated disc by opening the intervertebral disc space. It also improves mobility of the spine, which may help to relieve disc herniation pain and speed recovery. How to do it – begin this stretch on your hands and knees. Inhale and let your stomach “drop” towards the floor as you look up towards the ceiling. – follow this by exhaling and slowly rounding your spine while pressing into the floor with your hands and slightly curving your neck to look at your feet. – aim for 10 repetitions of this stretch and do 2-3 sets. How it helps – this exercise will help strengthen and stabilize your lower back and deep spine muscles. This will help you to maintain a good posture and avoid future episodes of herniated discs. How to do it: – begin on your hands and knees with your hands positioned under your shoulders and knees positioned under your hips. – raise your left arm and reach it forwards until it is aligned with your torso; at the same time, kick your right leg backwards until is it aligned with your torso. – hold this position for 2-3 seconds before slowly returning to the starting position. – repeat with your right arm and left leg. – alternate sides for 10 repetitions and do 2-3 sets. ** ensure that your head, neck, and back maintain a neutral alignment to minimize stress on your neck. 6.plank: how it helps – just like the bird dog, this “core” exercise will help bring your pelvis into right position by strengthening the deep spinal muscles and glutes (butt muscles). How to do it – begin lying on your stomach with your forearms against the mat. – engage your core and lift your body so that you are resting on your forearms and toes. – start with 10 second holds and work up to 30 second holds, do 2-3 sets. ** ensure to keep your back straight throughout the entire exercise – spine in neutral position. Thoracic expansion if you’re using a chair, sit facing forward and allow your upper body to fall over the back of the chair. Extend your arms above your head for a deeper stretch. Hold either position for 10 seconds and release. Repeat 3 times. 7.sitting spinal stretch sciatica pain is triggered when vertebrae in the spine compress. This stretch helps create space in the spine to relieve pressure on the sciatic nerve. 1.sit on the ground with your legs extended straight out with your feet flexed upward. 2.bend your right knee and place your foot flat on the floor on the outside of your opposite knee. 3.place your left elbow on the outside of your right knee to help you gently turn your body toward the right. 4.hold for 30 seconds and repeat three times, then switch sides. 8. Standing hamstring stretch this stretch can help ease pain and tightness in the hamstring caused by sciatica. 1.place your right foot on an elevated surface at or below your hip level. This could be a chair, ottoman, or step on a staircase. Flex your foot so your toes and leg are straight. If your knee tends to hyperextend, keep a slight bend in it. 2.bend your body forward slightly toward your foot. The further you go, the deeper the stretch. Do not push so far that you feel pain. 3.release the hip of your raised leg downward as opposed to lifting it up. If you need help easing your hip down, loop a yoga strap or long exercise band over your right thigh and under your left foot. 4.hold for at least 30 seconds, and then repeat on the other side if you have sciatica you can undergo intermittent pelvic traction where in your half of your body weight will be added in the electronic traction so that that would help you to reduce the pain, along with interferential therapy stimulations which would help you to get relieved from the radiating pain. 9.anterior pelvic tilt 1.lie on the back with the knees bent and feet flat on the floor, hip-width apart. 2.squeeze the buttocks and tilt the pelvis upward. 3.the back should feel as though it is flattening to the ground. 4.return to normal pelvis position. 5.repeat 10–12 times. Apply ice for the pain to get subsided immediately. If you cannot go immediately for the physiotherapy treatment. Ice can be kept in the low back where you have back pain. It is suggestible to wear lumbo sacral belt which would help you to build the abdominal muscle tone which itself would make you feel better. You can also wear mcr chappals which would help you to have less weight falling in the painful back. U have to take vitamin d rich foods. Likemilk, cheese, yogurt, brocoli, spinach. U need calcium consumption for increase the bone density. Lackof bone and bones crush inside the body vitamin d intake via supplements or exposure to low levels of sunlight. Vitamin d is used to absorb calcium in the bone and regulate calcium in the blood.this might be due to low calcium or vitamin d which has more impact on the bone density and also it makes one to feel that there is lack of bone strength or in a way the bones are brittle and almost breaking and they feel it is crushed in a way there are many bones breaking at the same time. You have to take vitamin d rich foods. Likemilk, cheese, yogurt, brocoli, spinach. U need calcium consumption for increase the bone density. 

0 person found this helpful

Dr. Julie Mercy J DavidErasmus Mundus Master in Adapted Physical Activity, MPT, BPTh/BPTPhysiotherapist

91% (41326 ratings)

Ask Free Question

Herniated disc 1. Spinal decompression how it helps – spinal decompression should be the very first thing you do to treat a herniated or bulging disc because it essentially creates space between your vertebrae, and thus takes pressure off the discs. How to do it – use a bar or the top of a door (or anything you can hang from) and allow your body to “just hang”. – hang for 30 seconds and do 3 sets. – release very slowly from this so as not to cause any spasms. ** this should not cause any pain. If you feel pain during it is not a good one for you. In that case, stop and try some of the other exercises below instead. 2. Standing extension how it helps – this standing extension helps reverse what you do on a daily basis (hunching)… since most bulging discs and herniated discs are caused by poor posture and repeated flexion of the spine (esp bending fwd in bad posture), this stretch helps push the disc back to neutral position. How to do it – begin this exercise by standing up with good posture. Now take both hands and place them on both sides of your lower back. Now with the help of your hands push your pelvis forward and extend your spine back. Follow the extension with your neck so that you end up facing the ceiling. – start with 10 repetitions and do 2-3 sets. – this one is particularly great to do when you need a break from sitting at your desk. ** this should not cause any pain. If you feel pain during it is not a good one for you. In that case, stop and try some of the other exercises below instead. 3. Half cobra pose (prone lumbar extension) how it helps – the half cobra stretch helps to push the disc material back towards the center of the inter-vertebral disc to allow for improved healing. The goal of repeated lower back extension is the “centralization of symptoms”, which basically means pain that travels down the affected leg to the foot should come back up closer to the low back – which will in turn alleviate the pain. How to do it – begin this exercise by lying on your stomach (prone position) and slowly prop yourself up on your elbows while keeping your hips in contact with the floor. – hold the prop-up position for 10-15 seconds before returning to the prone position (lying face down). – gradually increase to holding the end position for 30 seconds. Aim for 10 repetitions of this stretch. ** initially, you may not be able to tolerate this position very well, so make sure you start slowly and carefully. If there’s any pain, try a different exercise instead. 4. Full cobra pose (advanced extension) how it helps – this stretch is based on the same principle as the half cobra pose above. This advanced extension helps to push disc material back towards the center of the intervertebral disc, with the goal of alleviating pain symptoms. How to do it – once you’ve mastered the half cobra pose, you can increase the difficulty by moving to the advanced version of this stretch. Begin this exercise by lying on your stomach in the prone position (lying facing down) and slowly press up on your hands while keeping your pelvis in contact with the floor and lower back relaxed. – hold the prop-up position for 10 seconds. Aim for 10 repetitions of this stretch. – eventually try to hold this pose for longer if it feels good (20-30 seconds). ** if you feel pain during this exercise, it is not a good one for you. In that case, stop and try some of the other exercises instead. 5. Cat-cow how it helps – this is one of the most popular herniated disc exercises. By combining two yoga poses, the cat-cow stretch can help to relieve pressure on the herniated disc by opening the intervertebral disc space. It also improves mobility of the spine, which may help to relieve disc herniation pain and speed recovery. How to do it – begin this stretch on your hands and knees. Inhale and let your stomach “drop” towards the floor as you look up towards the ceiling. – follow this by exhaling and slowly rounding your spine while pressing into the floor with your hands and slightly curving your neck to look at your feet. – aim for 10 repetitions of this stretch and do 2-3 sets. How it helps – this exercise will help strengthen and stabilize your lower back and deep spine muscles. This will help you to maintain a good posture and avoid future episodes of herniated discs. How to do it: – begin on your hands and knees with your hands positioned under your shoulders and knees positioned under your hips. – raise your left arm and reach it forwards until it is aligned with your torso; at the same time, kick your right leg backwards until is it aligned with your torso. – hold this position for 2-3 seconds before slowly returning to the starting position. – repeat with your right arm and left leg. – alternate sides for 10 repetitions and do 2-3 sets. ** ensure that your head, neck, and back maintain a neutral alignment to minimize stress on your neck. 6.plank: how it helps – just like the bird dog, this “core” exercise will help bring your pelvis into right position by strengthening the deep spinal muscles and glutes (butt muscles). How to do it – begin lying on your stomach with your forearms against the mat. – engage your core and lift your body so that you are resting on your forearms and toes. – start with 10 second holds and work up to 30 second holds, do 2-3 sets. ** ensure to keep your back straight throughout the entire exercise – spine in neutral position. Thoracic expansion if you’re using a chair, sit facing forward and allow your upper body to fall over the back of the chair. Extend your arms above your head for a deeper stretch. Hold either position for 10 seconds and release. Repeat 3 times. 7.sitting spinal stretch sciatica pain is triggered when vertebrae in the spine compress. This stretch helps create space in the spine to relieve pressure on the sciatic nerve. 1.sit on the ground with your legs extended straight out with your feet flexed upward. 2.bend your right knee and place your foot flat on the floor on the outside of your opposite knee. 3.place your left elbow on the outside of your right knee to help you gently turn your body toward the right. 4.hold for 30 seconds and repeat three times, then switch sides. 8. Standing hamstring stretch this stretch can help ease pain and tightness in the hamstring caused by sciatica. 1.place your right foot on an elevated surface at or below your hip level. This could be a chair, ottoman, or step on a staircase. Flex your foot so your toes and leg are straight. If your knee tends to hyperextend, keep a slight bend in it. 2.bend your body forward slightly toward your foot. The further you go, the deeper the stretch. Do not push so far that you feel pain. 3.release the hip of your raised leg downward as opposed to lifting it up. If you need help easing your hip down, loop a yoga strap or long exercise band over your right thigh and under your left foot. 4.hold for at least 30 seconds, and then repeat on the other sideif you have low back pain and sciatica you can undergo intermittent pelvic traction where in your half of your body weight will be added in the electronic traction so that that would help you to reduce the pain, along with interferential therapy stimulations which would help you to get relieved from the radiating pain. 9.anterior pelvic tilt 1.lie on the back with the knees bent and feet flat on the floor, hip-width apart. 2.squeeze the buttocks and tilt the pelvis upward. 3.the back should feel as though it is flattening to the ground. 4.return to normal pelvis position. 5.repeat 10–12 times. Apply ice for the pain to get subsided immediately. If you cannot go immediately for the physiotherapy treatment. Ice can be kept in the low back where you have back pain. It is suggestible to wear lumbo sacral belt which would help you to build the abdominal muscle tone which itself would make you feel better. You can also wear mcr chappals which would help you to have less weight falling in the painful back. U have to take vitamin d rich foods. Likemilk, cheese, yogurt, brocoli, spinach. U need calcium consumption for increase the bone density. Lackof bone and bones crush inside the body vitamin d intake via supplements or exposure to low levels of sunlight. Vitamin d is used to absorb calcium in the bone and regulate calcium in the blood.this might be due to low calcium or vitamin d which has more impact on the bone density and also it makes one to feel that there is lack of bone strength or in a way the bones are brittle and almost breaking and they feel it is crushed in a way there are many bones breaking at the same time. You have to take vitamin d rich foods. Likemilk, cheese, yogurt, brocoli, spinach. U need calcium consumption for increase the bone density. 

1 person found this helpful

Dr. Julie Mercy J DavidErasmus Mundus Master in Adapted Physical Activity, MPT, BPTh/BPTPhysiotherapist

91% (41326 ratings)

Ask Free Question

Herniated disc 1. Spinal decompression how it helps – spinal decompression should be the very first thing you do to treat a herniated or bulging disc because it essentially creates space between your vertebrae, and thus takes pressure off the discs. How to do it – use a bar or the top of a door (or anything you can hang from) and allow your body to “just hang”. – hang for 30 seconds and do 3 sets. – release very slowly from this so as not to cause any spasms. ** this should not cause any pain. If you feel pain during it is not a good one for you. In that case, stop and try some of the other exercises below instead. 2. Standing extension how it helps – this standing extension helps reverse what you do on a daily basis (hunching)… since most bulging discs and herniated discs are caused by poor posture and repeated flexion of the spine (esp bending fwd in bad posture), this stretch helps push the disc back to neutral position. How to do it – begin this exercise by standing up with good posture. Now take both hands and place them on both sides of your lower back. Now with the help of your hands push your pelvis forward and extend your spine back. Follow the extension with your neck so that you end up facing the ceiling. – start with 10 repetitions and do 2-3 sets. – this one is particularly great to do when you need a break from sitting at your desk. ** this should not cause any pain. If you feel pain during it is not a good one for you. In that case, stop and try some of the other exercises below instead. 3. Half cobra pose (prone lumbar extension) how it helps – the half cobra stretch helps to push the disc material back towards the center of the inter-vertebral disc to allow for improved healing. The goal of repeated lower back extension is the “centralization of symptoms”, which basically means pain that travels down the affected leg to the foot should come back up closer to the low back – which will in turn alleviate the pain. How to do it – begin this exercise by lying on your stomach (prone position) and slowly prop yourself up on your elbows while keeping your hips in contact with the floor. – hold the prop-up position for 10-15 seconds before returning to the prone position (lying face down). – gradually increase to holding the end position for 30 seconds. Aim for 10 repetitions of this stretch. ** initially, you may not be able to tolerate this position very well, so make sure you start slowly and carefully. If there’s any pain, try a different exercise instead. 4. Full cobra pose (advanced extension) how it helps – this stretch is based on the same principle as the half cobra pose above. This advanced extension helps to push disc material back towards the center of the intervertebral disc, with the goal of alleviating pain symptoms. How to do it – once you’ve mastered the half cobra pose, you can increase the difficulty by moving to the advanced version of this stretch. Begin this exercise by lying on your stomach in the prone position (lying facing down) and slowly press up on your hands while keeping your pelvis in contact with the floor and lower back relaxed. – hold the prop-up position for 10 seconds. Aim for 10 repetitions of this stretch. – eventually try to hold this pose for longer if it feels good (20-30 seconds). ** if you feel pain during this exercise, it is not a good one for you. In that case, stop and try some of the other exercises instead. 5. Cat-cow how it helps – this is one of the most popular herniated disc exercises. By combining two yoga poses, the cat-cow stretch can help to relieve pressure on the herniated disc by opening the intervertebral disc space. It also improves mobility of the spine, which may help to relieve disc herniation pain and speed recovery. How to do it – begin this stretch on your hands and knees. Inhale and let your stomach “drop” towards the floor as you look up towards the ceiling. – follow this by exhaling and slowly rounding your spine while pressing into the floor with your hands and slightly curving your neck to look at your feet. – aim for 10 repetitions of this stretch and do 2-3 sets. How it helps – this exercise will help strengthen and stabilize your lower back and deep spine muscles. This will help you to maintain a good posture and avoid future episodes of herniated discs. How to do it: – begin on your hands and knees with your hands positioned under your shoulders and knees positioned under your hips. – raise your left arm and reach it forwards until it is aligned with your torso; at the same time, kick your right leg backwards until is it aligned with your torso. – hold this position for 2-3 seconds before slowly returning to the starting position. – repeat with your right arm and left leg. – alternate sides for 10 repetitions and do 2-3 sets. ** ensure that your head, neck, and back maintain a neutral alignment to minimize stress on your neck. 6.plank: how it helps – just like the bird dog, this “core” exercise will help bring your pelvis into right position by strengthening the deep spinal muscles and glutes (butt muscles). How to do it – begin lying on your stomach with your forearms against the mat. – engage your core and lift your body so that you are resting on your forearms and toes. – start with 10 second holds and work up to 30 second holds, do 2-3 sets. ** ensure to keep your back straight throughout the entire exercise – spine in neutral position. Thoracic expansion if you’re using a chair, sit facing forward and allow your upper body to fall over the back of the chair. Extend your arms above your head for a deeper stretch. Hold either position for 10 seconds and release. Repeat 3 times. 7.sitting spinal stretch sciatica pain is triggered when vertebrae in the spine compress. This stretch helps create space in the spine to relieve pressure on the sciatic nerve. 1.sit on the ground with your legs extended straight out with your feet flexed upward. 2.bend your right knee and place your foot flat on the floor on the outside of your opposite knee. 3.place your left elbow on the outside of your right knee to help you gently turn your body toward the right. 4.hold for 30 seconds and repeat three times, then switch sides. 8. Standing hamstring stretch this stretch can help ease pain and tightness in the hamstring caused by sciatica. 1.place your right foot on an elevated surface at or below your hip level. This could be a chair, ottoman, or step on a staircase. Flex your foot so your toes and leg are straight. If your knee tends to hyperextend, keep a slight bend in it. 2.bend your body forward slightly toward your foot. The further you go, the deeper the stretch. Do not push so far that you feel pain. 3.release the hip of your raised leg downward as opposed to lifting it up. If you need help easing your hip down, loop a yoga strap or long exercise band over your right thigh and under your left foot. 4.hold for at least 30 seconds, and then repeat on the other sideif you have low back pain and sciatica you can undergo intermittent pelvic traction where in your half of your body weight will be added in the electronic traction so that that would help you to reduce the pain, along with interferential therapy stimulations which would help you to get relieved from the radiating pain. 9.anterior pelvic tilt 1.lie on the back with the knees bent and feet flat on the floor, hip-width apart. 2.squeeze the buttocks and tilt the pelvis upward. 3.the back should feel as though it is flattening to the ground. 4.return to normal pelvis position. 5.repeat 10–12 times. Apply ice for the pain to get subsided immediately. If you cannot go immediately for the physiotherapy treatment. Ice can be kept in the low back where you have back pain. It is suggestible to wear lumbo sacral belt which would help you to build the abdominal muscle tone which itself would make you feel better. You can also wear mcr chappals which would help you to have less weight falling in the painful back. U have to take vitamin d rich foods. Likemilk, cheese, yogurt, brocoli, spinach. U need calcium consumption for increase the bone density. Lackof bone and bones crush inside the body vitamin d intake via supplements or exposure to low levels of sunlight. Vitamin d is used to absorb calcium in the bone and regulate calcium in the blood.this might be due to low calcium or vitamin d which has more impact on the bone density and also it makes one to feel that there is lack of bone strength or in a way the bones are brittle and almost breaking and they feel it is crushed in a way there are many bones breaking at the same time. You have to take vitamin d rich foods. Likemilk, cheese, yogurt, brocoli, spinach. U need calcium consumption for increase the bone density. 

0 person found this helpful

Dr. Julie Mercy J DavidErasmus Mundus Master in Adapted Physical Activity, MPT, BPTh/BPTPhysiotherapist

91% (41326 ratings)

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Acl rehab exercises for when your knee is still fragile here are three of the best (and safest) exercises to treat an acl injury when first starting out: • heel slides involve the extension of the knee without bearing any weight. Start by sitting on the floor with your legs outstretched. Slowly bend the injured knee while sliding your heel across the floor toward you. Slowly slide the foot back into the starting position and repeat 10 times. • isometric contractions of the quads are also done seated. For this, you would need to sit on the floor with your injured leg extended and your other leg bent. Now slowly contract the quadriceps of the injured knee without moving the leg and hold for 10 seconds. Relax. Repeat 10 times. • prone knee flexion involves lying on your stomach with your legs straight. Now bend your injured knee and bring your heel toward your buttocks. Hold five seconds. Relax. Repeat 10 times. When first starting, forget the adage "no pain, no gain. While you will likely experience discomfort when exercising the quads and hams, back away from any movement that causes outright pain. Pushing too hard can make matters worse and result in lengthier recovery time. Acl rehab exercises for after the swelling subsides as the swelling of your knee begins to subside, you should gradually be able to stand squarely on both feet without favoring the uninjured leg. When you are fully able to do this, you can start adding the following exercises: • passive knee extensions require two chairs of equal height. Place the chairs facing each other at a distance slightly shorter than the length of your leg. Sit in one chair and place your heel on the seat of the other. Relax your leg and allow your knee to straighten. Rest in this position one to two minutes several times a day to gradually stretch out the hamstrings. • heel raises are done while standing. Start by placing one hand on the back of a chair for balance. Now slowly lift the heel of your injured leg up, standing on your tiptoes. Stay there for five to 10 seconds. Slowly lower your heels. Repeat 10 times. • half squats are done standing while holding a sturdy table with both hands. Placing your feet a shoulder’s width apart, slowly bend your knees and lower your hips into a half squat. Hold for 10 seconds and then slowly return to a standing position. Repeat 10 times. • knee extensions require either a theraband or a length of an exercise band. To begin, loop one end of theraband around the leg of the table and the other around the ankle of your injured leg. (alternately, tie both ends of the exercise band around the table leg and insert the ankle of your injured leg into the looped end.) facing the table, slowly bend your knee about 45 degrees against the resistance of the tubing. Hold for a few seconds and slowly return to a standing position. Repeat 10 times. • standing on one leg is a great way to build and evaluate your strength and balance. Do so by lifting the uninjured leg and standing unassisted on the injured leg for 10 seconds. This exercise may not be so easy at first, but, with time and patience, you should able to do so while a few weeks. 

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Dr. Julie Mercy J DavidErasmus Mundus Master in Adapted Physical Activity, MPT, BPTh/BPTPhysiotherapist

91% (41326 ratings)

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. Standing extension how it helps – this standing extension helps reverse what you do on a daily basis (hunching)… since most bulging discs and herniated discs are caused by poor posture and repeated flexion of the spine (esp bending fwd in bad posture), this stretch helps push the disc back to neutral position. How to do it – begin this exercise by standing up with good posture. Now take both hands and place them on both sides of your lower back. Now with the help of your hands push your pelvis forward and extend your spine back. Follow the extension with your neck so that you end up facing the ceiling. – start with 10 repetitions and do 2-3 sets. – this one is particularly great to do when you need a break from sitting at your desk. ** this should not cause any pain. If you feel pain during it is not a good one for you. In that case, stop and try some of the other exercises below instead. 2. Half cobra pose (prone lumbar extension) how it helps – the half cobra stretch helps to push the disc material back towards the center of the inter-vertebral disc to allow for improved healing. The goal of repeated lower back extension is the “centralization of symptoms”, which basically means pain that travels down the affected leg to the foot should come back up closer to the low back – which will in turn alleviate the pain. How to do it – begin this exercise by lying on your stomach (prone position) and slowly prop yourself up on your elbows while keeping your hips in contact with the floor. – hold the prop-up position for 10-15 seconds before returning to the prone position (lying face down). – gradually increase to holding the end position for 30 seconds. Aim for 10 repetitions of this stretch. ** initially, you may not be able to tolerate this position very well, so make sure you start slowly and carefully. If there’s any pain, try a different exercise instead. 3. Full cobra pose (advanced extension) how it helps – this stretch is based on the same principle as the half cobra pose above. This advanced extension helps to push disc material back towards the center of the intervertebral disc, with the goal of alleviating pain symptoms. How to do it – once you’ve mastered the half cobra pose, you can increase the difficulty by moving to the advanced version of this stretch. Begin this exercise by lying on your stomach in the prone position (lying facing down) and slowly press up on your hands while keeping your pelvis in contact with the floor and lower back relaxed. – hold the prop-up position for 10 seconds. Aim for 10 repetitions of this stretch. – eventually try to hold this pose for longer if it feels good (20-30 seconds). ** if you feel pain during this exercise, it is not a good one for you. In that case, stop and try some of the other exercises instead. 4. Cat-cow how it helps – this is one of the most popular herniated disc exercises. By combining two yoga poses, the cat-cow stretch can help to relieve pressure on the herniated disc by opening the intervertebral disc space. It also improves mobility of the spine, which may help to relieve disc herniation pain and speed recovery. How to do it – begin this stretch on your hands and knees. Inhale and let your stomach “drop” towards the floor as you look up towards the ceiling. – follow this by exhaling and slowly rounding your spine while pressing into the floor with your hands and slightly curving your neck to look at your feet. – aim for 10 repetitions of this stretch and do 2-3 sets. How it helps – this exercise will help strengthen and stabilize your lower back and deep spine muscles. This will help you to maintain a good posture and avoid future episodes of herniated discs. How to do it: – begin on your hands and knees with your hands positioned under your shoulders and knees positioned under your hips. – raise your left arm and reach it forwards until it is aligned with your torso; at the same time, kick your right leg backwards until is it aligned with your torso. – hold this position for 2-3 seconds before slowly returning to the starting position. – repeat with your right arm and left leg. – alternate sides for 10 repetitions and do 2-3 sets. ** ensure that your head, neck, and back maintain a neutral alignment to minimize stress on your neck. 5.plank: how it helps – just like the bird dog, this “core” exercise will help bring your pelvis into right position by strengthening the deep spinal muscles and glutes (butt muscles). How to do it – begin lying on your stomach with your forearms against the mat. – engage your core and lift your body so that you are resting on your forearms and toes. – start with 10 second holds and work up to 30 second holds, do 2-3 sets. ** ensure to keep your back straight throughout the entire exercise – spine in neutral position. Thoracic expansion if you’re using a chair, sit facing forward and allow your upper body to fall over the back of the chair. Extend your arms above your head for a deeper stretch. Hold either position for 10 seconds. 1. Plank the world record for the longest plank is 8 hours. Luckily, you don’t need to hold it that long for the exercise to have an effect! in fact. You can hold it for 10-15 seconds. • the plank is similar to a push-up position, but instead of resting on your hands, you rest on your elbows and bring them directly underneath your chest. • after kneeling, lean forward and place your elbows on the ground directly below your shoulders. • lift your knees off of the floor and push your feet back. Ensure your back is straight and keep your neck aligned with the rest of your spine. • hold the position and tighten your core muscles for the desired time. 2. Side plank just like the original plank, but only balancing on one side. • lie on the floor on your side, facing sideways with your feet together. • lift up your body until you are supporting yourself with your elbow, directly below your shoulder. • raise your hips until your body is in a straight line and tighten your core muscles; your body should create a slant from your shoulders to your feet. • hold this position without dropping your hips. • repeat on the opposite side. 3. Pelvic tilt with exercise ball sit on a ball that allows your legs to be at a 90-degree angle with your feet flat on the floor. • keep your shoulders back and spine straight. • tilt your hips forward and flex your abdominals tight. • tilt your hips backward as you stick your tailbone out. • move back and forth slowly, keeping your shoulders back. • repeat 10 times for 3 sets. 4. Superman lie on your stomach, face down, with your arms out in front of you. • lift arms, legs, and chest off the floor simultaneously while keeping your hips grounded. • hold for a minimum of two seconds. • lower back down slowly. • repeat 10 times for 3 sets. 6. Crunches lie flat on your back, placing your feet flat on the floor with your legs bent. • fold your arms across your chest and lift your torso up until your head, neck, and torso are off the ground. • hold for a moment before lowering back down. • repeat. 6. Quadruped arm opposite leg raises • kneel on the floor, lean forward, and place your hands palm-down on the floor. • make sure your back is straight, your knees are below your hips, and that your palms are directly below your shoulders. • raise one arm as you raise the opposite leg until both are aligned straight out from your body, parallel to your spine. • slowly lower both your arm and leg until you are back in the starting position. • switch arm and leg, and repeat. 7. Dead bug lie flat on the floor on your back. • lift your arms straight up from your body, reaching through the air. • raise one leg until it is at a 90-degree angle from your body. • slowly lower until it is in the starting position. • switch legs and repeat. 8. Hip bridge lie on your back with your knees bent and raised, your feet flat on the floor, and your arms at your sides. • keep your feet hip-distance apart and try to keep your leg in vertical alignment with your knee. • flex your glutes and push through your heels to raise your hips upward. Try to make a diagonal line from your shoulders to your knees. • hold for a short moment before lowering back down. • repeat 10 times for 3 sets. 

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Dr. Julie Mercy J DavidErasmus Mundus Master in Adapted Physical Activity, MPT, BPTh/BPTPhysiotherapist

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1.cat-camel on hands and knees, maintain tight abdominals with head straight (photo 1). Take a deep breath in and lift your lower rib cage, round your back and relax your neck (photo 2). As you breathe out, lower your chest towards the floor, looking slightly upward. Return to beginning position with tight abdominals. Repeat ten (10) times per set. Do two (2) sets per session. Do one (1) session per day. •bracing. Bracing may prevent a spinal curve from getting worse, reduce pain, and improve mobility. The right bracing strategy depends on the type of scoliosis a person has, so talk to a doctor before trying a brace. •choosing the right furniture. An ergonomic chair or mattress may better support the spine and back, reducing pain. •massage. Some people find that massage helps with scoliosis pain 2.plank the world record for the longest plank is 8 hours. Luckily, you don’t need to hold it that long for the exercise to have an effect! in fact. You can hold it for 10-15 seconds. •the plank is similar to a push-up position, but instead of resting on your hands, you rest on your elbows and bring them directly underneath your chest. •after kneeling, lean forward and place your elbows on the ground directly below your shoulders. •lift your knees off of the floor and push your feet back. Ensure your back is straight and keep your neck aligned with the rest of your spine. •hold the position and tighten your core muscles for the desired time. 3. Side plank just like the original plank, but only balancing on one side. •lie on the floor on your side, facing sideways with your feet together. •lift up your body until you are supporting yourself with your elbow, directly below your shoulder. •raise your hips until your body is in a straight line and tighten your core muscles; your body should create a slant from your shoulders to your feet. •hold this position without dropping your hips. •repeat on the opposite side. 4. Pelvic tilt with exercise ball sit on a ball that allows your legs to be at a 90-degree angle with your feet flat on the floor. •keep your shoulders back and spine straight. •tilt your hips forward and flex your abdominals tight. •tilt your hips backward as you stick your tailbone out. •move back and forth slowly, keeping your shoulders back. •repeat 10 times for 3 sets. 5. Superman lie on your stomach, face down, with your arms out in front of you. •lift arms, legs, and chest off the floor simultaneously while keeping your hips grounded. •hold for a minimum of two seconds. •lower back down slowly. •repeat 10 times for 3 sets. 6.Crunches lie flat on your back, placing your feet flat on the floor with your legs bent. •fold your arms across your chest and lift your torso up until your head, neck, and torso are off the ground. •hold for a moment before lowering back down. •repeat. 7. Quadruped arm opposite leg raises •kneel on the floor, lean forward, and place your hands palm-down on the floor. •make sure your back is straight, your knees are below your hips, and that your palms are directly below your shoulders. •raise one arm as you raise the opposite leg until both are aligned straight out from your body, parallel to your spine. •slowly lower both your arm and leg until you are back in the starting position. •switch arm and leg, and repeat. 8. Dead bug lie flat on the floor on your back. •lift your arms straight up from your body, reaching through the air. •raise one leg until it is at a 90-degree angle from your body. •slowly lower until it is in the starting position. •switch legs and repeat. 9. Hip bridge lie on your back with your knees bent and raised, your feet flat on the floor, and your arms at your sides. •keep your feet hip-distance apart and try to keep your leg in vertical alignment with your knee. •flex your glutes and push through your heels to raise your hips upward. Try to make a diagonal line from your shoulders to your knees. •hold for a short moment before lowering back down. •repeat 10 times for 3 sets. 

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Dr. Julie Mercy J DavidErasmus Mundus Master in Adapted Physical Activity, MPT, BPTh/BPTPhysiotherapist

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Back pain back pain exercises; kindly do these exercises. Back pain is described as acute or chronic based on how long you’ve had it. Acute pain lasts days to weeks, subacute pain lasts six weeks to three months, and chronic pain lasts longer than three months. Things that make it better or worse back pain may get worse with movement or if you sit or stand for a long time. It may get better if you switch positions or walk around. Other symptoms you may experience with back pain include: •the painful spot looking swollen and feeling tender to the touch •a muscle spasm in the painful area •numbness or weakness in one or both of your legs (if the pain is due to a nerve issue) if you find you have back pain and can’t hold your urine or bowel movements, something is pressing on your spinal nerves, and you should be evaluated immediately. This condition, called cauda equina syndrome, can cause severe long-term damage to your spinal nerves if not treated right away. 6 imbalances that cause pain—and how to fix them "pain is a medical condition and a medical issue, says brett jones, owner of applied strength in pittsburgh who is certified for the functional movement screen, a system of tests and cor rective exercise strategies. "it's a warning sign. The pain is there to tell you something's wrong. And that warning sign could be more serious than "you're going too hard. Jones and the other coaches consulted for this piece all had a horror story to tell-when pain in a client meant a more serious condition such as a nerve issue, thyroid issue, or even cancer. The point: if you experience regular pain while exercising-or when you're not-go to the doctor. If you've been cleared by a doc and you're still feeling discomfort, try these simple tests to see what's truly causing the pain-it could be related to an imbalance in a completely different part of your body. The good news: with these drills, stretches, and corrective exercises, you may be able to fix them-no doctors necessary. 1. Standing extension how it helps – this standing extension helps reverse what you do on a daily basis (hunching)… since most bulging discs and herniated discs are caused by poor posture and repeated flexion of the spine (esp bending fwd in bad posture), this stretch helps push the disc back to neutral position. How to do it – begin this exercise by standing up with good posture. Now take both hands and place them on both sides of your lower back. Now with the help of your hands push your pelvis forward and extend your spine back. Follow the extension with your neck so that you end up facing the ceiling. – start with 10 repetitions and do 2-3 sets. – this one is particularly great to do when you need a break from sitting at your desk. ** this should not cause any pain. If you feel pain during it is not a good one for you. In that case, stop and try some of the other exercises below instead. 2. Half cobra pose (prone lumbar extension) how it helps – the half cobra stretch helps to push the disc material back towards the center of the inter-vertebral disc to allow for improved healing. The goal of repeated lower back extension is the “centralization of symptoms”, which basically means pain that travels down the affected leg to the foot should come back up closer to the low back – which will in turn alleviate the pain. How to do it – begin this exercise by lying on your stomach (prone position) and slowly prop yourself up on your elbows while keeping your hips in contact with the floor. – hold the prop-up position for 10-15 seconds before returning to the prone position (lying face down). – gradually increase to holding the end position for 30 seconds. Aim for 10 repetitions of this stretch. ** initially, you may not be able to tolerate this position very well, so make sure you start slowly and carefully. If there’s any pain, try a different exercise instead. 3. Full cobra pose (advanced extension) how it helps – this stretch is based on the same principle as the half cobra pose above. This advanced extension helps to push disc material back towards the center of the intervertebral disc, with the goal of alleviating pain symptoms. How to do it – once you’ve mastered the half cobra pose, you can increase the difficulty by moving to the advanced version of this stretch. Begin this exercise by lying on your stomach in the prone position (lying facing down) and slowly press up on your hands while keeping your pelvis in contact with the floor and lower back relaxed. – hold the prop-up position for 10 seconds. Aim for 10 repetitions of this stretch. – eventually try to hold this pose for longer if it feels good (20-30 seconds). ** if you feel pain during this exercise, it is not a good one for you. In that case, stop and try some of the other exercises instead. 4. Cat-cow how it helps – this is one of the most popular herniated disc exercises. By combining two yoga poses, the cat-cow stretch can help to relieve pressure on the herniated disc by opening the intervertebral disc space. It also improves mobility of the spine, which may help to relieve disc herniation pain and speed recovery. How to do it – begin this stretch on your hands and knees. Inhale and let your stomach “drop” towards the floor as you look up towards the ceiling. – follow this by exhaling and slowly rounding your spine while pressing into the floor with your hands and slightly curving your neck to look at your feet. – aim for 10 repetitions of this stretch and do 2-3 sets. How it helps – this exercise will help strengthen and stabilize your lower back and deep spine muscles. This will help you to maintain a good posture and avoid future episodes of herniated discs. How to do it: – begin on your hands and knees with your hands positioned under your shoulders and knees positioned under your hips. – raise your left arm and reach it forwards until it is aligned with your torso; at the same time, kick your right leg backwards until is it aligned with your torso. – hold this position for 2-3 seconds before slowly returning to the starting position. – repeat with your right arm and left leg. – alternate sides for 10 repetitions and do 2-3 sets. ** ensure that your head, neck, and back maintain a neutral alignment to minimize stress on your neck. 5.plank: how it helps – just like the bird dog, this “core” exercise will help bring your pelvis into right position by strengthening the deep spinal muscles and glutes (butt muscles). How to do it – begin lying on your stomach with your forearms against the mat. – engage your core and lift your body so that you are resting on your forearms and toes. – start with 10 second holds and work up to 30 second holds, do 2-3 sets. ** ensure to keep your back straight throughout the entire exercise – spine in neutral position. Thoracic expansion if you’re using a chair, sit facing forward and allow your upper body to fall over the back of the chair. Extend your arms above your head for a deeper stretch. Hold either position for 10 seconds. 1. Plank the world record for the longest plank is 8 hours. Luckily, you don’t need to hold it that long for the exercise to have an effect! in fact. You can hold it for 10-15 seconds. • the plank is similar to a push-up position, but instead of resting on your hands, you rest on your elbows and bring them directly underneath your chest. • after kneeling, lean forward and place your elbows on the ground directly below your shoulders. • lift your knees off of the floor and push your feet back. Ensure your back is straight and keep your neck aligned with the rest of your spine. • hold the position and tighten your core muscles for the desired time. 2. Side plank just like the original plank, but only balancing on one side. • lie on the floor on your side, facing sideways with your feet together. • lift up your body until you are supporting yourself with your elbow, directly below your shoulder. • raise your hips until your body is in a straight line and tighten your core muscles; your body should create a slant from your shoulders to your feet. • hold this position without dropping your hips. • repeat on the opposite side. 3. Pelvic tilt with exercise ball sit on a ball that allows your legs to be at a 90-degree angle with your feet flat on the floor. • keep your shoulders back and spine straight. • tilt your hips forward and flex your abdominals tight. • tilt your hips backward as you stick your tailbone out. • move back and forth slowly, keeping your shoulders back. • repeat 10 times for 3 sets. 4. Superman lie on your stomach, face down, with your arms out in front of you. • lift arms, legs, and chest off the floor simultaneously while keeping your hips grounded. • hold for a minimum of two seconds. • lower back down slowly. • repeat 10 times for 3 sets. 6. Crunches lie flat on your back, placing your feet flat on the floor with your legs bent. • fold your arms across your chest and lift your torso up until your head, neck, and torso are off the ground. • hold for a moment before lowering back down. • repeat. 6. Quadruped arm opposite leg raises • kneel on the floor, lean forward, and place your hands palm-down on the floor. • make sure your back is straight, your knees are below your hips, and that your palms are directly below your shoulders. • raise one arm as you raise the opposite leg until both are aligned straight out from your body, parallel to your spine. 

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Dr. Karuna ChawlaBHMSHomeopathy Doctor

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Back pain can have causes that aren't due to underlying disease. Examples include overuse such as working out or lifting too much, prolonged sitting and lying down, sleeping in an uncomfortable position or wearing a poorly fitting backpack. Doing exercises to strengthen the lower back can help alleviate and prevent lower back pain. It can also strengthen the core, leg, and arm muscles. Exercise also increases blood flow to the lower back area, which may reduce stiffness and speed up the healing process. Below are exercises that strengthen the lower back and help manage lower back pain: url/articles/323204. Php#seated-lower-back-rotational-stretches 1. Bridges—lie on the ground and bend the knees, placing the feet flat on the floor hip-width apart. Press the feet into the floor, keeping the arms by the sides. Raise the buttocks off the ground until the body forms a straight line from the shoulders to the knees. Squeeze the buttocks with the shoulders remaining on the floor. Lower the buttocks to the ground and rest for a few seconds.Repeat 15 times and then rest for 1 minute.Do 3 sets of 15 repetitions.2. Knee-to-chest stretches— lie on the back on the floor. Bend the knees, keeping both feet flat on the floor. Use both hands to pull one knee in toward the chest. Hold the knee against the chest for 5 seconds, keeping the abdominals tight and pressing the spine into the floor. Return to the starting position.Repeat with the opposite leg.Repeat with each leg 2–3 times twice a day. 3. Lower back rotational stretches—lie back on the floor with bent knees and feet flat on the ground. Keeping the shoulders firmly on the floor, gently roll both bent knees over to one side. Hold the position for 5–10 seconds. Return to the starting position. Gently roll the bent knees over to the opposite side, hold, and then return to the starting position. Repeat 2–3 times on each side twice a day. 4. Draw-in maneuvers— lie back on the floor with knees bent and feet flat, keeping the arms by the sides. Breathe in deeply. While breathing out, pull the bellybutton toward the spine, tightening the abdominal muscles and keeping the hips still. Hold the position for 5 seconds. Repeat 5 times. 5. Pelvic tilts— lie back on the floor with knees bent and feet flat, keeping the arms by the sides. Gently arch the lower back and push the stomach out. Hold for 5 seconds, then relax. Flatten the back and pull the bellybutton in toward the floor. Hold for 5 seconds, then relax. Increase the number of repetitions daily, building up to 30. 6. Lying lateral leg lifts— lie on one side with the legs together. Keep the lower leg slightly bent. Draw the bellybutton into the spine to engage the core muscles. Raise the top leg about 18 inches, keeping it straight and extended. Hold the position for 2 seconds. Repeat 10 times. Turn onto the other side of the body and repeat, lifting the other leg. Perform 3 sets on each side. 7. Cat stretches— get onto the hands and knees with the knees hip-width apart. Arch the back, pulling the bellybutton up toward the spine. Slowly relax the muscles and allow the abdomen to sag toward the floor. Return to the starting position. Repeat 3–5 times twice a day. 8. Supermans— lie face down on the ground and stretch both arms out in front of the body, keeping the legs stretched out and flat on the ground. Raise both the hands and feet, aiming to create a gap of about 6 inches between them and the floor. Try to pull in the bellybutton, lifting it off the floor to engage the core muscles. Keep the head straight and look at the floor to avoid neck injury. Stretch the hands and feet outward as far as possible. Hold the position for 2 seconds. Return to the starting position. Repeat 10 times. For this homeopathic treatment is very effective consult online with details. 

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Dr. Julie Mercy J DavidErasmus Mundus Master in Adapted Physical Activity, MPT, BPTh/BPTPhysiotherapist

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Upper back pain pushups this one may seem basic, but there’s no denying that pushups are one of the best ways to strengthen the pectoral muscles. These can be done on the knees or toes. If you’re not ready for full pushups, start with your hands resting on a solid surface higher than your feet — like a very sturdy coffee table or the edge of a couch, cushions removed, that’s pressed up against a wall — and start on the toes. Having your hands higher than your feet and your body at an angle can be a good way to start a pushup regimen. As you get stronger, you can begin to lower the angle of your body. This will help you transition to full pushups more easily than going from knees to toes. A full plank engages the muscles differently, even at an angle. When doing pushups, aim for 2 sets of 10 reps per day. 1.start in plank position with your hands under your shoulders and your core engaged. 2.as you lower, inhale. 3.as you engage your muscles to push yourself up, exhale. Keep your elbows hugging in close to your body. Keep your focus on slowly breathing as you do these, and on engaging the pectorals while keeping the core tight. Don’t just crank these out to get them done — this can compromise your form and do more harm than good. If the movement is really tough, break the sets into three or five to start, or find a higher point to begin after a week of exercise. If necessary, you can even stand and do pushups pushing against a wall. Chest flyfor this exercise, you’ll need a bench or exercise ball as well as some dumbbells. If you don’t have weights, you can always use the old standby: a soup can in each hand. Just keep in mind that dumbbells are easier to hold and you can get more out of using them, as even 5-pound weights are heavier than your heaviest canned goods. 1.lie with your upper and middle back on a bench or ball, with your legs at a 90-degree angle. Hold a weight in each hand and extend your arms to the sky, elbows slightly bent. 2.as you inhale, lower your arms out wide, until your elbows are at shoulder height. 3.as you exhale, raise your hands until they meet above your chest again. 4.do 2 sets of 10. If that feels pretty easy, up it to 2 sets of 15 or increase the weight you’re using. Dumbbell row strengthening your back muscles is an important component of treating pectusexcavatum. The dumbbell row targets your lat muscles. The way it’s described below also strengthens your core, another important component of treating the condition. You’ll need some dumbbells to complete this move — err on the lighter side if you’ve never done a row before. 1.hold one dumbbell in each hand with your arms extended. Hinge at the hips until your upper body reaches a 45-degree angle. 2.keeping your neck in line with your spine and your gaze straight down, pull your elbows straight back and squeeze between your shoulder blades. 3.extend your arms back to the starting position. Complete 2 sets of 10. Dumbbell rear delt fly another move to strengthen your back, a dumbbell rear delt fly also focuses on the lats, as well as the rhomboids and the traps. Choose a light pair of dumbbells to complete this move and ensure that you’re pinching your shoulder blades together at the top to get the most out of it. 1.hold one dumbbell in each hand with your arms extended. Hinge at the hips until your upper body reaches a 45-degree angle and bring the dumbbells together. 2.keeping your spine and neck neutral, inhale and push the dumbbells out and up to the side until your arms are parallel to the floor. 3.exhale and return to the start in a slow and controlled motion. Complete 2 sets of 10. Exercise is a key component to treating pectusexcavatum. By strengthening your chest, back, and core muscles and stretching your chest cavity, you can combat the condition’s effects. Aim to complete these exercises several times a week to maximize results. 

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Dr. Julie Mercy J DavidErasmus Mundus Master in Adapted Physical Activity, MPT, BPTh/BPTPhysiotherapist

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Back pain back pain exercises; kindly do these exercises. Back pain is described as acute or chronic based on how long you’ve had it. Acute pain lasts days to weeks, subacute pain lasts six weeks to three months, and chronic pain lasts longer than three months. Things that make it better or worse back pain may get worse with movement or if you sit or stand for a long time. It may get better if you switch positions or walk around. Other symptoms you may experience with back pain include: •the painful spot looking swollen and feeling tender to the touch •a muscle spasm in the painful area •numbness or weakness in one or both of your legs (if the pain is due to a nerve issue) if you find you have back pain and can’t hold your urine or bowel movements, something is pressing on your spinal nerves, and you should be evaluated immediately. This condition, called cauda equina syndrome, can cause severe long-term damage to your spinal nerves if not treated right away. 6 imbalances that cause pain—and how to fix them "pain is a medical condition and a medical issue, says brett jones, owner of applied strength in pittsburgh who is certified for the functional movement screen, a system of tests and cor rective exercise strategies. "it's a warning sign. The pain is there to tell you something's wrong. And that warning sign could be more serious than "you're going too hard. Jones and the other coaches consulted for this piece all had a horror story to tell-when pain in a client meant a more serious condition such as a nerve issue, thyroid issue, or even cancer. The point: if you experience regular pain while exercising-or when you're not-go to the doctor. If you've been cleared by a doc and you're still feeling discomfort, try these simple tests to see what's truly causing the pain-it could be related to an imbalance in a completely different part of your body. The good news: with these drills, stretches, and corrective exercises, you may be able to fix them-no doctors necessary. 1. Standing extension how it helps – this standing extension helps reverse what you do on a daily basis (hunching)… since most bulging discs and herniated discs are caused by poor posture and repeated flexion of the spine (esp bending fwd in bad posture), this stretch helps push the disc back to neutral position. How to do it – begin this exercise by standing up with good posture. Now take both hands and place them on both sides of your lower back. Now with the help of your hands push your pelvis forward and extend your spine back. Follow the extension with your neck so that you end up facing the ceiling. – start with 10 repetitions and do 2-3 sets. – this one is particularly great to do when you need a break from sitting at your desk. ** this should not cause any pain. If you feel pain during it is not a good one for you. In that case, stop and try some of the other exercises below instead. 2. Half cobra pose (prone lumbar extension) how it helps – the half cobra stretch helps to push the disc material back towards the center of the inter-vertebral disc to allow for improved healing. The goal of repeated lower back extension is the “centralization of symptoms”, which basically means pain that travels down the affected leg to the foot should come back up closer to the low back – which will in turn alleviate the pain. How to do it – begin this exercise by lying on your stomach (prone position) and slowly prop yourself up on your elbows while keeping your hips in contact with the floor. – hold the prop-up position for 10-15 seconds before returning to the prone position (lying face down). – gradually increase to holding the end position for 30 seconds. Aim for 10 repetitions of this stretch. ** initially, you may not be able to tolerate this position very well, so make sure you start slowly and carefully. If there’s any pain, try a different exercise instead. 3. Full cobra pose (advanced extension) how it helps – this stretch is based on the same principle as the half cobra pose above. This advanced extension helps to push disc material back towards the center of the intervertebral disc, with the goal of alleviating pain symptoms. How to do it – once you’ve mastered the half cobra pose, you can increase the difficulty by moving to the advanced version of this stretch. Begin this exercise by lying on your stomach in the prone position (lying facing down) and slowly press up on your hands while keeping your pelvis in contact with the floor and lower back relaxed. – hold the prop-up position for 10 seconds. Aim for 10 repetitions of this stretch. – eventually try to hold this pose for longer if it feels good (20-30 seconds). ** if you feel pain during this exercise, it is not a good one for you. In that case, stop and try some of the other exercises instead. 4. Cat-cow how it helps – this is one of the most popular herniated disc exercises. By combining two yoga poses, the cat-cow stretch can help to relieve pressure on the herniated disc by opening the intervertebral disc space. It also improves mobility of the spine, which may help to relieve disc herniation pain and speed recovery. How to do it – begin this stretch on your hands and knees. Inhale and let your stomach “drop” towards the floor as you look up towards the ceiling. – follow this by exhaling and slowly rounding your spine while pressing into the floor with your hands and slightly curving your neck to look at your feet. – aim for 10 repetitions of this stretch and do 2-3 sets. How it helps – this exercise will help strengthen and stabilize your lower back and deep spine muscles. This will help you to maintain a good posture and avoid future episodes of herniated discs. How to do it: – begin on your hands and knees with your hands positioned under your shoulders and knees positioned under your hips. – raise your left arm and reach it forwards until it is aligned with your torso; at the same time, kick your right leg backwards until is it aligned with your torso. – hold this position for 2-3 seconds before slowly returning to the starting position. – repeat with your right arm and left leg. – alternate sides for 10 repetitions and do 2-3 sets. ** ensure that your head, neck, and back maintain a neutral alignment to minimize stress on your neck. 5.plank: how it helps – just like the bird dog, this “core” exercise will help bring your pelvis into right position by strengthening the deep spinal muscles and glutes (butt muscles). How to do it – begin lying on your stomach with your forearms against the mat. – engage your core and lift your body so that you are resting on your forearms and toes. – start with 10 second holds and work up to 30 second holds, do 2-3 sets. ** ensure to keep your back straight throughout the entire exercise – spine in neutral position. Thoracic expansion if you’re using a chair, sit facing forward and allow your upper body to fall over the back of the chair. Extend your arms above your head for a deeper stretch. Hold either position for 10 seconds. 1. Plank the world record for the longest plank is 8 hours. Luckily, you don’t need to hold it that long for the exercise to have an effect! in fact. You can hold it for 10-15 seconds. • the plank is similar to a push-up position, but instead of resting on your hands, you rest on your elbows and bring them directly underneath your chest. • after kneeling, lean forward and place your elbows on the ground directly below your shoulders. • lift your knees off of the floor and push your feet back. Ensure your back is straight and keep your neck aligned with the rest of your spine. • hold the position and tighten your core muscles for the desired time. 2. Side plank just like the original plank, but only balancing on one side. • lie on the floor on your side, facing sideways with your feet together. • lift up your body until you are supporting yourself with your elbow, directly below your shoulder. • raise your hips until your body is in a straight line and tighten your core muscles; your body should create a slant from your shoulders to your feet. • hold this position without dropping your hips. • repeat on the opposite side. 3. Pelvic tilt with exercise ball sit on a ball that allows your legs to be at a 90-degree angle with your feet flat on the floor. • keep your shoulders back and spine straight. • tilt your hips forward and flex your abdominals tight. • tilt your hips backward as you stick your tailbone out. • move back and forth slowly, keeping your shoulders back. • repeat 10 times for 3 sets. 4. Superman lie on your stomach, face down, with your arms out in front of you. • lift arms, legs, and chest off the floor simultaneously while keeping your hips grounded. • hold for a minimum of two seconds. • lower back down slowly. • repeat 10 times for 3 sets. 6. Crunches lie flat on your back, placing your feet flat on the floor with your legs bent. • fold your arms across your chest and lift your torso up until your head, neck, and torso are off the ground. • hold for a moment before lowering back down. • repeat. 6. Quadruped arm opposite leg raises • kneel on the floor, lean forward, and place your hands palm-down on the floor. • make sure your back is straight, your knees are below your hips, and that your palms are directly below your shoulders. • raise one arm as you raise the opposite leg until both are aligned straight out from your body, parallel to your spine. • slowly lower both your arm and leg until you are back in the starting position. • switch arm and leg, and repeat. 7. Dead bug lie flat on the floor on your back. • lift your arms straight up from your body, reaching through the air. • raise one leg until it is at a 90-degree angle from your body. • slowly lower until it is in the starting position. • switch legs and repeat. 8. Hip bridge lie on your back with your knees bent and raised, your feet flat on the floor, and your arms at your sides. • keep your feet hip-distance apart and try to keep your leg in vertical alignment with your knee. • flex your glutes and push through your heels to raise your hips upward. Try to make a diagonal line from your shoulders to your knees. • hold for a short moment before lowering back down. • repeat 10 times for 3 sets. 

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