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Extension Exercises = Healthy Spine

In the last couple of hundred years, we moved from a society that was primarily upright-postured, constantly moving, farming existence to an industrialized, sedentary, couch potato, computer-based workplace existence that has wreaked havoc with our spines!

You don’t need to become a contortionist to benefit from some simple extension exercises that help relieve spinal stress!

All the stretching, bending and exercise involved in job duties in the “olden day” really helped the spine stay healthy. Witness the number of people today with chronic back pain, degenerative disc disease, loss of mobility, osteoarthritis – conditions that were relatively unheard of back in the day when one tended to farm animals and crops as a means to gain their livelihood!

So…what is a desk worker to do? How about some extension exercises for starters?

Extension exercises are beneficial for those with chronic low back pain, pain that extends out to other parts of the body from the back, and disc problems. They are usually done in a prone (lying down) or standing position. They generally involve stretching and extending the spine backward. They can be repeated several times a day, especially when back pain is acute.

One of the easiest extension exercises is done in a standing position. Keeping your posture straight, and your hands on your hips, bend slowly backward, stretching the spine. Extending the spine backward is beneficial because few activities we perform on a daily basis involve this type of extension. Spine extension exercises engage the entire spine, including the critical middle back area, which is forced to move against its natural curve. This helps to keep your back in balance.

Another extension exercise can be initiated from a lying down position. Lying down on your stomach with you hands under your shoulders, push up with your hands, lifting your shoulders off the floor. If you are able, place your elbows on the floor, directly beneath your shoulders and hold the position for several seconds.

Remember too that regular chiropractic care is essential. You don’t want to be exercising improperly functioning spinal joints! Want to learn more? Ask for specific home care procedures that can help support and strengthen your spine.

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