Best exercises to relieve back pain
Did you know tight hips can give you back pain?
Hip Strengthening Exercises for Back Pain Relief
Try these exercises and start living pain-free!
Back pain is a common ailment that can be caused by a variety of factors, including poor posture, muscle imbalances, and injuries. While rest and pain medication may provide temporary relief, it’s essential to address the underlying issues to prevent recurrent pain. One effective way to alleviate and prevent back pain is by strengthening the hips. In this article, we will explore hip strengthening exercises that can help you find relief and references to support their efficacy.
The Importance of Hip Strength for Back Health:
Your hips play a crucial role in maintaining proper spinal alignment and stability. Weak hip muscles can lead to poor posture, which in turn places added stress on the lower back. By strengthening your hip muscles, you can improve your core stability, reduce the strain on your back, and decrease the likelihood of future pain.
Hip Strengthening Exercises:
- Clamshells:
- Begin by lying on your side with your legs bent at a 90-degree angle.
- Keep your feet together while raising your top knee as high as possible.
- Lower it back down and repeat for 15-20 repetitions on each side.
- Hip Bridges:
- Lie on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor.
- Lift your hips off the ground, creating a straight line from your shoulders to your knees.
- Hold for a few seconds, then lower down.
- Perform 3 sets of 15-20 repetitions.
- Single-Leg Raises:
- Lie on your back with one knee bent and the other leg extended.
- Lift the extended leg a few inches off the ground, keeping it straight.
- Lower it down without letting it touch the floor and repeat.
- Aim for 15-20 repetitions on each leg.
- Fire Hydrants:
- Start on your hands and knees.
- Lift one knee out to the side, keeping the knee bent at a 90-degree angle.
- Lower it back down and repeat.
- Do 3 sets of 15-20 repetitions per leg.
- Planks:
- Begin in a push-up position but with your weight resting on your forearms.
- Keep your body in a straight line from head to heels.
- Hold the plank position for 30 seconds to 1 minute.
- Gradually increase the duration as you build strength.
Conclusion:
Don’t let back pain keep you from living an active and pain-free life. Incorporating hip strengthening exercises into your routine can be a valuable step toward relief and prevention. However, always consult with a healthcare professional before starting a new exercise program, especially if you have underlying medical conditions or severe back pain. These exercises, when performed correctly and consistently, can contribute to better hip and back health, helping you move more comfortably and confidently in your daily life.
References:
- Sherry, M. A., & Best, T. M. (2004). A comparison of 2 rehabilitation programs in the treatment of acute hamstring strains. Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy, 34(3), 116-125.
- Souza, R. B., & Powers, C. M. (2009). Differences in hip kinematics, muscle strength, and muscle activation between subjects with and without patellofemoral pain. Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy, 39(1), 12-19.
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