by
iciclombard 01
| Nov 29, 2023
Lumbar spondylosis, a degenerative disease that influences the lower vertebrae of the spine, is rising because of today's prevalent sedentary way of life. This condition includes the progressive decay of spinal discs and facet joints, bringing about persistent back pain, rigidity, and limited agility. Nevertheless, strategic exercises are crucial in effectively handling lumbar spondylosis, improving body posture, and promoting optimal spinal well-being. This piece explores five highly effective exercises for lumbar spondylosis.
What is Lumbar Spondylosis?
Lumbar spondylosis is a degenerative health condition of the lower region of the back around the lumbar spine. Also called “osteoarthritis of the spine”, it occurs due to natural aging. The discs between vertebrae of the spine begin to lose elasticity, causing chronic pain, inflammation, and difficulty in moving.
Lumbar Spondylosis Symptoms
The symptoms of lumbar spondylosis include mild discomfort and pain to more chronic ones like limited motion.
- Lower back pain, which is sharp or dull and increases due to stagnancy or too much movement.
- Stiffness of lower back
- Numbness or tingling in the legs and feet
- Weakness of back muscles because of nerve pressure and decreased movement
- A limited range of movement
- Pain that goes up and down in the body
Best Exercises for Getting Relief from Lumbar Spondylosis
The best exercises to relieve the symptoms of lumbar spondylosis are-
- Pelvic tilt
Pelvic tilts present a gentle yet impactful exercise focusing on the lower back and abdomen muscles. To engage in this activity, start by lying on your back, with your knees bent and feet flat on the ground. Enact your abdominal strength and gently press your lower back against the floor, promoting a tilt in your pelvis upwards.
Maintain this elevated position for a brief period before releasing. This exercise is especially favourable for fortifying the core muscles, vital in supporting the lumbar area. Regular pelvic tilts can assist with alleviating pressure on the spinal discs and mitigating the inconvenience associated with lumbar spondylosis.
- Cat-cow stretch
The cat-cow stretch, inspired by yoga, promotes flexibility and mobility in the spine. To begin this stretch, get down on a tabletop position on your hands and knees. Exhale while assuming a cow position, with your back arched and your belly sagging toward the floor.
As you exhale, round your back; now, tuck your chin to your chest, resembling the cat pose. This dynamic movement helps gently stretch the spine and maintains its natural curvature. Additionally, it aids in increasing blood circulation to the spinal discs, supporting their nourishment and repair.
- Knee to Chest Stretch
These stretches are designed to engage the lower back and hips, which helps decrease muscle tension and enhance flexibility. To do this pose, you can start by lying on your back with bent knees and feet on the ground. Raise one knee to the chest and press it, holding the pose with both hands. Remain in this pose for 20 to 30 seconds then raise the other feet. Do this 3 to 5 times and increase the repetitions over time.
- Bridge Exercise
The bridge pose proves exceptionally compelling in improving the strength of the lower back's glutes, hamstrings and muscles. To perform this posture, lie on your back with your knees bent and your feet spaced hip-width apart. Utilise the power of your heels to raise your hips from the floor while ensuring that your shoulders and feet keep in touch with the ground.
Maintain the pose for a few breaths before gradually lowering your hips. Engaging the posterior chain, the bridge pose helps stabilise the lumbar region, reduces strain on the spine, and enhances overall stability.
- Bird Dog Exercise
Bird dog pose is a popular one that increases the flexibility of your back and spine and strengthens your core, benefiting your overall health. You can start with a tabletop pose, hands placed under your shoulders and knees tucked under your hips. Stretch your right arm while extending your left leg behind. Hold the pose and then shift to the starting position. Repeat this on the opposite side and do 10 to 12 repetitions for best results.
- Child’s Pose
This is not only a strengthening and relaxing pose for your body, but it also helps regulate hormones and emotional stress, making this one of the most well-rounded poses. You can start with the tabletop pose and sit back on your heels, extending your arms on the floor and touching your head to the ground. Hold for a few seconds and repeat the pose 3 to 5 times. Focus on your breath during the pose to make the most of it and feel light and flexible after the session.
- Standing Hamstring Stretch
Tightness of the hamstring is a reason and result of lumbar spondylosis. Hamstring stretch helps in relieving the tightness and enhances flexibility of the legs and lower back. Start with standing straight, with feet placed slightly apart. Bend at the hips, keeping back straight and extending hands to touch the toes. Hold the pose for 20-30 seconds and return to standing. Do this 3 to 5 times and increase repetitions with time.
How Can Lumbar Spondylosis Be Reduced?
Besides the exercises mentioned above, there are certain other things you can do to naturally reduce the symptoms of lumbar spondylosis-
- Always sit and stand upright, reducing stress on your spine.
- Keep your weight in check, as excess weight puts pressure on back muscles and bones.
- Try heat and cold therapy for easing pain and inflammation of muscles.
- Visit a trained and licensed therapist for appropriate physical therapy.
- You can opt for medications after consulting a healthcare provider to help manage the pain and uneasiness.
A health insurance policy covering medical procedures for lumbar spondylosis can help you get financial assistance if surgery or other costly treatments are needed.
Conclusion
Incorporating these exercises for lumbar spondylosis into your day-to-day schedule can extensively impact the management of lumbar spondylosis and improve spinal fitness. Nevertheless, it's critical to seek direction from a medical care expert before starting any new exercise routine, particularly if you have an existing medical condition. Your doctor’s expertise will ensure the exercises are tailored to your needs and safety, and having the right health insurance can also provide access to necessary medical guidance. By actively participating in your spinal health, you can strive for a pain-free and comfortable life.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational purposes only. Please consult a medical or nutrition professional before making any significant changes in your daily diet. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any impact or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.