Back pain can be debilitating, causing immobility, and inflexibility. It causes significant impact on a person’s quality of life. It can make even the most mundane daily activities extremely difficult – and excruciating. Building the muscles that make up your core (abdominals and back) can help support your spine and reduce back pain. In many cases, strengthening these muscles can help a patient avoid medication or surgery. With just a few smart moves you can greatly decrease your back pain, increase your mobility, and take back your life.
The Role of Abs and Back Muscles
The spine is the supporting structure for the entire body. It houses the central nerve system and nerve impulses speed along a spinal super highway.
The arms, legs, neck, and head are all connected to the spine. An intricate network of ligaments and muscles keeps the body attached. The back muscles and abdominal muscles, are at the center, or core. They keep the body upright and facilitate movement. When these core muscles are not in good condition, it stresses the spine, reducing its ability to support the body. This often results in back pain and injury.
Postural Alignment
Postural alignment is a common contributor to back pain. This is often due to weak core muscles.
As muscles fail to stabilize the spine, the body changes to accommodate the weakness. This can result in postures that cause joint or muscle pain and even headaches.
For instance, stooped or hunched shoulders can cause back pain. It can also create tension in the shoulders and neck. This, in turn, can cause tension headaches and migraines.
A sway back, where the lower back bows, causing the pelvis to tilt up, can cause severe lower back pain. Especially after standing for long periods of time. Sway back can be the result of weakened core muscles. Or, a combination of a weak core, combined with obesity or pregnancy.
The weight in the abdominal area pulls the spine forward so that it curves. A pregnancy sling can sometimes help with the pain, but it is just a band aid. The real cure is to strengthen the core muscles so that they are better able to adequately support the spine and body.
Foundation Training
Rehabilitation exercises are a great place to start. They are basic movements designed to begin the process of strengthening the core muscles. Moving up to Pilates or yoga are next. Even simple ab crunches, various sit up exercises are great for core strength.
Creating a strong core can help relieve back pain but also have added benefits such as increased energy, better mobility, and an improved mood. By allowing the body to support itself it can naturally relieve pain and heal without harmful side effects. When you take good care of your body, it will take good care of you.
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