When your back is painful you may feel like resting, but moving is good for your back. Exercises for lower back pain will strengthen your back, stomach, and leg muscles. Overall it’s your ‘core’ which is being targeted as it supports your spine, relieving back pain. Always ask your physiotherapist before doing any exercise for back pain. Depending on the cause and intensity of your pain, some exercises may not be recommended and can be harmful.

Some definite no no’s are:
• Full sit-ups
• Toe touching in standing
• Arching (Cobra style)
• Double leg lifts in lying

It is usually safe to do:
• Partial abdominal crunches
• Bridging
• Wall squats
• Pilates strengthening floor exercises
• Hamstring stretches
• Pelvic rocking in lying
• All four ‘bird dog’ exercises

If you need guidance regarding any of these exercises ask your Physio and a personalised video exercise program can be designed especially for you!