lower back pain

BethVN

I've been exercising fairly consistently since Oct '10 and am experiencing some pretty significant back pain on my lower right side. Walking and doing the elliptical feel great when I use them first thing in the morning but by noon I've got pain again. Any tips for good exercises for back pain AND things to avoid? Thanks!

poedunk65

i would check out a chiropractor for an alignment.

Shweedog

STRETCH! It really does wonders for my back.

dancingnancies

be careful until you feel better. you don't want to injure yourself even more. i would ice your back after you exercise, just to keep the swelling down. goodluck and if it gets worse, see a doc. :flowerforyou:

jonikeffer

I agree that stretching is one of the best things you can do. it sounds like you are probably tighter on the one side than the other, which is true of all people. Yoga is going to feel fantastic for you. Also make sure you're not sitting funny in your normal life....if you work at a desk or spend time on the couch. Make sure you are sitting straight and not with your legs/feet tucked up to one side.

lisapickering

STRETCH! It really does wonders for my back.

Yes, stretch!!! I have lower back pain as well and the only thing that helps is stretching (medication doesn't work!). Some good stretches that work for me are
cat and cow pose
child's pose
flat on your back, knees bent to one side, arms to the other side
flat on your back, knees bent and pulled into your chest (arms wrapped around legs)
pigeon pose - stretching your hip flexors will also help with your lower back
.... there are many others, try googling back / hip stretches.

BethVN

thanks for the excellent feedback! I am going to a chiro already but have reduced how much I go for insurance purposes. It does help but once a month isn't making a huge difference. I will definitely try the stretches!