Exercise for Low back Pain

Regular exercises to restore the strength of your back and a gradual return to everyday activities are important for your full recovery.

Exercise 10 to 30 minutes a day 1 to 3 times a day during your early recovery

Exercise and Acute or Subacute Back Pain

Exercise does not help acute back pain. In fact, overexertion may cause further harm. Beginning after 4 - 8 weeks of pain, however, a rehabilitation program may benefit the patient.

Patients should avoid exercises that put the lower back under pressure until the back muscles are well toned. Such exercises include leg lifts done in a facedown position, straight leg sit-ups, and leg curls using exercise equipment.

INITIAL EXERCISE

Ankle Pumps

Lie on your back.

Move ankles up and down.

Repeat 10 times.

Heel Slides

Lie on your back.

Slowly bend and straighten knee.

Repeat 10 times.

Abdominal Contraction

Lie on your back with knees bent and hands resting below ribs.