Back Strengthening exercises?

[Simba's Mom]

My doctor told me I have spinal arthritis and my best bet is some back strengthening exercises. He just said to check on the internet on various websites. So I thought I'd ask here also. Does anyone have to do back strengthening exercises regularly, and if so, what ones would you recommend?

 

[golfgal]

Your dr told you to look on the internet??

I would ask your Dr for a referral to a physical therapist to SHOW you how to PROPERLY do these exercises. You could end up doing more harm than good if you just "do some exercises".

 

[PRmamiDEdos]

As the PP said, I would ask for a referral to a therapist. The only thing I will say is when your stomach is strong, it helps your back. I started doing the p90x ab ripper (3x week) and have not had to take Aleve for my back in two weeks.

 

[The Mystery Machine]

You need to get a referral to a physical therapist. Insist on it.

I myself am having issues and I do have a terrific book and my dh has some great exercises however he is the first to tell you that a physical therapist will is vital to recovery.

 

[quasar4legs]

I do Pilates 3 times a week with a physical therapist and it has changed my life.

While I still have some ongoing problems, I now sleep through the night pain free something that I never though would happen again. I have built up my core strength and for me it has been money well spent.

Hope you find something that helps.

 

[Jennasis]

Do you have a back problem? When I was about to "graduate" P/T about 7 months or so after back surgery (discectomy L5-S1) my therapist had me do PLANKS. They are awful and I hate them but MAN what a good exercise!

Lay on your stomach, propped up on your elbows/forearms and toes and then raise your body up off the floor. Keep your stomach muscles tight and hold yourself up for a 30 second count (or as long as you can). Lather rinse repeat.

 

[Simba's Mom]

Do you have a back problem? When I was about to "graduate" P/T about 7 months or so after back surgery (discectomy L5-S1) my therapist had me do PLANKS. They are awful and I hate them but MAN what a good exercise!

Lay on your stomach, propped up on your elbows/forearms and toes and then raise your body up off the floor. Keep your stomach muscles tight and hold yourself up for a 30 second count (or as long as you can). Lather rinse repeat.

Wow, that does sound like a good one. And yes, I do have back problems. I recently had an MRI for possible spinal stenosis, which I don't have. But I do have bulging discs, osteophytes (bone spurs), and some kind of mild tear. Do I need a medical referral to go to a physical therapist?

 

[Breezy_Carol]

Do I need a medical referral to go to a physical therapist?

I am a PT. If you want your insurance to cover it, you need a referral. Some states, like Maryland where I practice, have direct access. I could see you but not bill insurance.

And I agree, having a PT show you the proper way to do the exercises would be best.

BTW, I have had PT for my neck twice. I do yoga now and it really helps me.

 

[clarabelle]

I think the PT idea is a good one.

I teach Pilates -so I think that is a good idea -but I would try for a private lesson the first time to get you started in the right direction.

Here are some gentle back exercises from the American Academy of
Orthopedic Surgeons:

http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=a00302

 

[sparklynails23]

The trainers at the gym will show you exactly how to do back exercises that will help your trouble area, and all you'll pay is the gym fee. Lower back is a tough area to target. Reverse crunches are best, deadlifts are good, but I don't know what kind of shape you are in.

 

[Simba's Mom]

I am a PT. If you want your insurance to cover it, you need a referral. Some states, like Maryland where I practice, have direct access. I could see you but not bill insurance.

And I agree, having a PT show you the proper way to do the exercises would be best.

BTW, I have had PT for my neck twice. I do yoga now and it really helps me.

Thanks for the information. I'll definitely call and get a referral for a ohysical therapist. Considering how much my back hurt, it does make sense to see one to get the correct exercises.

 

[golfgal]

I am a PT. If you want your insurance to cover it, you need a referral. Some states, like Maryland where I practice, have direct access. I could see you but not bill insurance.

And I agree, having a PT show you the proper way to do the exercises would be best.

BTW, I have had PT for my neck twice. I do yoga now and it really helps me.

It isn't so much your state as it is your insurance policy. We don't need referrals for anything with our insurance policy but the same insurance company does have policies that require referrals for pretty much everything.