Fitness Tip of the Day: Saturday's Stretch & Flexibility -- Stretches for Back Pain

Back pain is something that many people experience at one time or another.  I myself have had a herniated disc and had to undergo physical therapy, electro therapy and muscle work.  It still bothers me once in a while if I do something too strenuous or move the wrong way--Don't make fun of Sammy Sosa--I've pulled my back while sneezing too!

One thing we all know--back pain is NOT fun!  It's some of the worst pain that you will ever experience.  In my case, I'm talking worse than labor!

Back pain is the main reason I became a Pilates instructor.  A lot of my physical therapy was actually doing Pilates on a stability ball.  I believe that I have my back health because I do Pilates regularly.

Now back pain isn't limited to your lower back, you can get pain in your middle back and your neck as well--remember, they are all part of your spine.

I was very excited to see today's video posted on YouTube by Psychetruth.  It is entitled "Safe Stretches for Back Pain."

Remember, go only as far as your body wants to go.  Your range of motion may not be as large as hers.  You don't want to force any stretch, especially when twisting.  If sitting cross-legged bothers you, sit however is comfortable.

When threading your arm through to the floor while you are on all fours, you can place your arm on a pillow if the stretch is too deep or painful.

While lying on your back, you can also put a pillow under your knee if it's too deep without it.

Doing these kinds of stretches regularly, along with doing core work like Pilates will help to keep your back strong and flexible.