I need rehabilitation exercises!

notOpel

Long story short, I pulled/strained something in my neck due to poor form while doing crunches and this morning I threw my back out! I've got a long history of back issues (and I'm only 26), especially in the lower left side just above my hip.
Anyone out there know some stretches or moves to ease the pain so I can get back in the game? :brokenheart:

ande2994

I'm 29 with more than a decade of back pain behind me, so you're not alone!

I don't know many neck/upper back stretches, but one I've recently discovered for the lower back/hip area that I love! Sit on the floor with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor. If you're like me, you probably have to lean back and rest on your arms behind you. Cross one foot over the opposite knee. Try to stretch the knee of the raised leg away from you without pushing. You can increase the stretch by sliding the foot that's on the floor toward your bum or by sitting up straighter. LOVE this stretch for lower back and hip flexors.

notOpel

Awesome, I'm doing this as soon as I can sit with my back reasonably straight!

knittnponder

Yoga. My husband has back issues and has been told by doctors, physical therapists, massage therapists, family members and complete strangers; DO YOGA! He threw his back out sneezing and is now planning to do yoga. Hope you strengthen up quickly.

notOpel

Yoga. My husband has back issues and has been told by doctors, physical therapists, massage therapists, family members and complete strangers; DO YOGA! He threw his back out sneezing and is now planning to do yoga. Hope you strengthen up quickly.

Sneezing? Oh gosh, poor guy!
The yoga idea makes me think of King of the Hill, but I'm a giant nerd. Sounds like a great way to ease back into exercise, though, and I've always wanted to try it. With the thousands of free instructional videos floating around on the net there's no reason not to. Thanks!