What is the best type of exercise for someone with lower back pain?
I would say to definitely emphasize strengthening the core and correcting posture deficiencies.
Eric Leader
owner, www.everybodyspersonaltrainer.com
Assuming you have a doctors release, I would always recommend ab work. Increase the strength of your abdominals usually takes pressure off the lumbar spine. Also I would work on flexibility of the lumbar with a few movement drills and stretches. I have consistently gotten results this way with my clients.
Also, I gave this answer to a previous similar question.
For these types of clients the sequence of starting an exercise program should be:
1. Physician Clearance.
2. ROM assessment and any other assessments that are indicated.
3. Begin with foundation movements at all joints within comfort.
4. If available, include aquatic exercise.
5. Begin addition of resistance.
6. Use slow careful progression/regression as tolerated.
Even my collegiate athlete clients go through this initial phase. The information that I get from this system is the basis for the program design.
I rarely see the use of ice being recommend for back pain. That is too bad. Ice is very helpful in reducing back pain and can be used by almost everyone. Clearance should be obtained as a precaution.
I teach CEC courses on “Recovery Essentials” that cover the topics of injury and effective management of discomfort. I usually teach at my studio on the Big Island of Hawaii, but I do occasionally agree to fly to other locations for workshops/seminars. Check out my website at www.hawaiifitnessacademy.com to contact me for more information. I will answer reasonable questions and inquiries.