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Stay Active and Alleviate: Lower Back Arthritis Exercises

Staying active is an essential component for managing lower back arthritis exercises.

Arthritis is a degenerative condition that causes inflammation and stiffness in the joints. While many are familiar with arthritis affecting the joints in the hands and knees, some people are surprised that arthritis also affect the spine.

Arthritis of the spine can result in chronic pain and limited mobility. It makes simple daily activities challenging.

Lower back physical therapy exercises and a healthy diet can help individuals maintain a healthy and pain-free spine.

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Lower Back Arthritis Exercises

While it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional, such as a physical therapist or physician, here are some exercises that may help alleviate symptoms of lower back arthritis:

Stretching exercises

Gentle stretching exercises can help improve flexibility and reduce stiffness in the lower back. Examples include knee-to-chest stretches, pelvic tilts, and hamstring stretches.

Strengthening exercises

Strengthening the muscles around the lower back can provide support and stability. Some exercises that may be beneficial include bridges, partial sit-ups, and bird dogs (alternating arm and leg extensions while on all fours).

Aerobic exercises

Low-impact aerobic exercises like walking, swimming, or cycling can help improve overall fitness and reduce pain. These exercises are generally easier on the joints compared to high-impact activities.

Yoga and Pilates

These forms of exercise can help improve flexibility, strength, and posture. However, choosing appropriate poses and movements for your condition is important, as avoiding any positions that cause pain or discomfort.

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Exercise Techniques for Lower Back Arthritis

Lower back arthritis is a common condition that afflicts millions of people worldwide. While the pain and stiffness associated with this condition can be debilitating. 

Regular exercise is an effective way to manage symptoms and improve quality of life. Several exercise techniques have to target lower back arthritis. With the help of a physical therapist, it is easier to manage lower back arthritis exercises. Physical therapists can also help patients incorporate lower back arthritis exercises into their daily routines.   

One recommended exercise is aquatic therapy, which involves performing low-impact movements. The buoyancy of the water can help reduce pain and improve mobility. 

Another effective technique is stretching. You can do before and after exercise to help ease stiffness. Strength training is also beneficial. It is good to building up the muscles surrounding the lower back. It can provide added support and stability. 

Aerobic exercises such as walking, cycling, or swimming can help improve cardiovascular health.

When to seek professional medical advice

While the decision to seek medical care can at times be challenging, it is a must to recognize the signs and symptoms.

Some signs that show the need for medical attention include intense or persistent back pain.

The concerning symptoms like numbness, tingling, weakness, or loss of bladder or bowel control. If you have a history of cancer or osteoporosis, then seeking medical advice is crucial.

Another symptom is that the pain persists for over a few weeks or keeps recurring. Or, if you have difficulty walking or standing.

If you are unsure whether to seek medical attention, it is always better to err on the side of caution. You can work with your healthcare provider towards achieving and maintaining optimal health and well-being.

What to do next?

In the end, regular exercise is essential for managing lower back arthritis. Incorporating regular exercise and physical activity into daily routines can help reduce symptoms. 

Regularly doing your lower back arthritis exercises not only improves your mobility but enhances the quality of your life as well.

I look forward to meeting you again in my next post. ‘Til then, stay healthy and live fully!

Dr. Lex Gonzales
Dr. Lex Gonzales, PT, DPT has been a physical/physiotherapist for over 24 years and is an award-winning author and keynote speaker. On drlexgonzales.com he provides quality information and practical solutions you can use to improve your health and function.