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Back Stretches
Before stretching any muscles, it is wise to first warm up the body with some mild cardio-vascular exercise. This activity gets the blood flowing and increases the elasticity of the muscles. Stretches should be slow and controlled. The movement should push to the point of resistance, but not to the point of pain. Stretches should be static, not bouncy. Bouncing during a stretch is a common cause of back muscle pain. Back Stretches for Pain ReliefDifferent stretches are designed to accomplish different goals. Some stretches are done primarily to warm up the muscles and ligaments for further activity. These type of stretches are commonly done as part of a 15 minute “warm up” before a sport or other physical activity.Some stretches are designed to increase soft tissue flexibility. These stretches are held for an extended period of time. These stretches will also increase the usable range of motion in a muscle or joint. Still other stretches are designed to act as an exercise as well. These stretches require physical effort to maintain. These back muscle stretches will increase flexibility and range of motion, but will also increase muscle mass and strength. Recommendation for Back StretchesThere are many types of back pain stretches. Some are individual exercises, while others are involved and intricate routines. Some activities, such as Yoga, also function as back stretching programs.It is important to consult a doctor before starting a program of stretching for back pain. It is crucial to understand the exact mechanics and proper form of each stretch. Poor form can do more harm than good… I would recommend working out a stretching program with a qualified doctor, chiropractor or physical therapist. Make sure to learn the proper technique and follow it closely every time. Stretching can be a valuable tool in your back pain treatment arsenal.
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