Exercise with back problems?
Discussion
Hi,
I slipped a disc in my lower back a few years ago and I still get a lot of pain. I realise I'll probably never be completely clear of it but I think the ongoing discomfort is largely due to lack of exercise.
Can anyone suggest an exercise that will keep my interest up?
Gym - I find too dull.
Swimming - even more dull.
Jogging - after only a few metres the back pain is too great.
Spinning - doesn't do much for my back.
Circuits???
Rock climbing??
Cycling - used to do alot but doesn't do much for my back and a bit bored of it.
Pilates - someone suggested it but I've no idea about it??
Whilst I do need to lose weight and improve cardiovascular fitness my priorities are to strengthen my back muscles and free it up a bit.
Background: 12 1/2 stone, 5'10" and mid 30s. I've seen chiropractors, physios, consultants and had an MRI scan to confirm back problems.
All suggestions welcome.
Cheers.
I slipped a disc in my lower back a few years ago and I still get a lot of pain. I realise I'll probably never be completely clear of it but I think the ongoing discomfort is largely due to lack of exercise.
Can anyone suggest an exercise that will keep my interest up?
Gym - I find too dull.
Swimming - even more dull.
Jogging - after only a few metres the back pain is too great.
Spinning - doesn't do much for my back.
Circuits???
Rock climbing??
Cycling - used to do alot but doesn't do much for my back and a bit bored of it.
Pilates - someone suggested it but I've no idea about it??
Whilst I do need to lose weight and improve cardiovascular fitness my priorities are to strengthen my back muscles and free it up a bit.
Background: 12 1/2 stone, 5'10" and mid 30s. I've seen chiropractors, physios, consultants and had an MRI scan to confirm back problems.
All suggestions welcome.
Cheers.
Unfortunately dull or not you're probably going to have to do something and keep it up 
I find it all completely boring, but after an op last year for a herniated disk I'm stuck in gym strengthening 1-2 times/week, Pilates 1-2 times/week, CV stuff when I can face it, and exercises at home.
I find it all boring but it's a means to an end....
I find it all completely boring, but after an op last year for a herniated disk I'm stuck in gym strengthening 1-2 times/week, Pilates 1-2 times/week, CV stuff when I can face it, and exercises at home.
I find it all boring but it's a means to an end....
Pilates is amazing. I had back problems for thirty years. This coupled with leg strengthening is the way to go. Might be worth looking into Alexander technique too to correct any posture issues.
Regular stretching too is essential. I do back and glute stretches twice a day.
And deep-tissue massage once a fortnight too to keep you in check. Focus on neck, back, glutes and legs
And 'Treat Your Own Back' by Robin McKenzie is a great book to dip into.
Regular stretching too is essential. I do back and glute stretches twice a day.
And deep-tissue massage once a fortnight too to keep you in check. Focus on neck, back, glutes and legs
And 'Treat Your Own Back' by Robin McKenzie is a great book to dip into.
Edited by EmmaP on Monday 14th March 23:33
anonymous said:
[redacted]
This is good to know. I haven't run for nearly two years because of Achilles tendinitis and once that went I got plantar fasciitis (both connected). I am going to start swimming instead to get my general fitness and strength back. Good to know that back stroke is beneficial as that is the only stroke I'm any good at.Thanks for the replies so far.
I know I should accept that exercise is a means to an end and it can be dull. However I've had health drives before and they fade into oblivion as I just don't have the willpower.
What I'm trying to find is something that I really enjoy to help motivate me.
I've just booked a couple of classes at the local leisure centre - "Starter Circuits" and "Back Care Pilates"
I've done a bit of background reading and Pilates seems to be very popular for back problems. The fact they do a Pilates class that targets the back specifically is great. Will find out next week how good it is!!
Will also take a look at the book when I get two mins.
Cheers.
I know I should accept that exercise is a means to an end and it can be dull. However I've had health drives before and they fade into oblivion as I just don't have the willpower.
What I'm trying to find is something that I really enjoy to help motivate me.
I've just booked a couple of classes at the local leisure centre - "Starter Circuits" and "Back Care Pilates"
I've done a bit of background reading and Pilates seems to be very popular for back problems. The fact they do a Pilates class that targets the back specifically is great. Will find out next week how good it is!!
Will also take a look at the book when I get two mins.
Cheers.
There's also some good back books by Sarah Keys.
With Pilates I find it really depends on the instructor. I find that if the exercises are easy then chances are you're doing them wrong. Not using the correct muscles, holding the correct position etc., and some instructors just won't notice and you won't get the benefit.
With Pilates I find it really depends on the instructor. I find that if the exercises are easy then chances are you're doing them wrong. Not using the correct muscles, holding the correct position etc., and some instructors just won't notice and you won't get the benefit.
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