Work It Out: 5 Facts about Low Back Pain
If you suffer from chronic pain in your low back, you are not alone. Not by a long shot.
Unfortunately, low back pain is widespread, and it’s often hard to figure out why it’s happening or how to feel better. Too many people reflexively turn to medications, surgery or ongoing misery.
We know there’s a better way: movement.
“Moving is probably the most important thing you can do for back pain,” states an article on Vox that reviewed dozens of studies into low back pain. “When back pain strikes, your first instinct may be to avoid physical activity and retreat to the couch until the pain subsides. But doctors now think that in most cases, this is probably the worst thing you can do.”
Let’s discuss the best exercise options for you. In the meantime, review these five facts about low back pain in America.
- Low back pain is the second most common cause of disability in the United States.
- It costs us $90 billion a year.
- Evidence shows exercise can alleviate the pain – without reliance on drugs or surgery – while doing nothing and hoping for the best just delays recovery.
- Studies show flexibility of the lumbar spine and hamstrings, core stabilization, and muscular strength significantly reduce low back pain.
- If you have low back pain, first see your doctor to rule out serious causes. Then start moving. Come see us to learn more about strength training, aerobic exercise, yoga, Pilates, tai chi and more.