Most people who have back pain naturally feel better by doing certain motions. Some feel better when they sit (their back and hips are flexed). Others feel better when they stand (back and hips are extended). Exercise that moves you toward your more comfortable position usually works better to treat your back pain. For example, if you are more comfortable sitting down, exercises that bend you forward—such as partial sit-ups (curl-ups) and knee-to-chest exercises—may help you.
The exercise programs that work best for chronic low back pain are designed specifically for you and are supervised. For example, a physical therapist might teach you an exercise program that you can use at home. Then you would see the therapist every so often to check on your progress and advance your program.
Here are some exercises to try if your back pain is eased by standing or lying down:
Here are some exercises to try if your back pain is eased by sitting down:
Here are some exercises to try when no position eases your pain:
This exercise strengthens the buttocks muscles, which support the back and help you lift with your legs.
You may need to place a small pillow under your stomach for comfort.
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