Stretching can be beneficial for relieving lower back pain and improving flexibility and mobility.
What are some of the best stretches for the lower back?
Cat-Cow is one of the best stretches for the low back which gentle flow between two poses that warms the body and brings flexibility to the spine. It stretches the back torso and neck, and softly stimulates and strengthens the abdominal organs.
Knee-to-Chest Stretch: Lie on your back with your knees bent. Slowly bring one knee toward your chest, grasping it with your hands and gently pulling it closer. Hold for 20-30 seconds, then repeat with the other leg.
Child’s Pose is one of the best stretches for the low back and provides a gentle stretch for the back, hips, thighs, and ankles. It can help relieve back pain. Start on your hands and knees, then sit back on your heels while extending your arms forward and lowering your forehead to the ground. This stretch gently stretches the lower back.
Piriformis Stretch: Lie on your back with your knees bent. Cross one ankle over the opposite knee, then gently pull the uncrossed leg towards your chest until you feel a stretch in your buttocks. Hold for 20-30 seconds and switch sides.
Figure 4 Stretch: Lie on the ground or treatment table with your legs extended in front of you. Cross one ankle over the opposite knee, then gently lean forward, keeping your back straight, until you feel a stretch in your buttocks and outer hip. Hold for 20-30 seconds and switch sides.
Pelvic Tilt: Lie on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the ground. Gently flatten your lower back against the floor by tilting your pelvis upward. Hold for a few seconds, then release. Repeat 10-15 times.
Sphinx Pose: Lie on your stomach and prop yourself up on your forearms, keeping your elbows directly beneath your shoulders. Press your forearms into the ground to lift your upper body, arching your back gently. Hold for 20-30 seconds.
Lie on your back with your knees bent, feet flat on the floor. Lift your hips off the ground, forming a straight line from knees to shoulders.
Bird Dog: While in a crawling position, tighten/brace at your abdominal muscles and then slowly lift a leg and opposite arm upwards. Your hip will move into a hip extension on the way up. Lower leg and arm down and then repeat with the opposite side.
Standing Quadriceps Stretch: Stand tall and hold onto a stable object for balance. Bend one knee, bringing your heel toward your buttocks, then grasp your foot with your hand. Hold for 20-30 seconds and switch legs.
Should I stretch my lower back if it hurts?
Doing regular stretching exercises can help with lower back pain by maintaining your posture, strengthening your back and abdominal muscles, and improving flexibility.
What is the best position to sit in with lower back pain?
The best position to sit in with lower back pain is with a back support such as a rolled-up towel or lumbar roll, at the curve of your back. Keep your hips and knees at a right angle. Use a foot stool if necessary. Your legs must not be crossed and your feet should lie flat on the floor. It is also advisable to stretch and move around as much as possible.
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