Is bending bad for your back? Ryan Wesson , one of our therapists has written this blog to provide you with some information surrounding low back pain.
Low back pain (LBP) is the most common complaint we see in Physioflexx, which isn’t surprising considering it is the most reported musculoskeletal complaint across the world. Everyone presents differently – different symptoms, different restrictions, different goals. The one common theme is the underlying beliefs and perceptions surrounding LBP.
It seems as a generation we have grown up afraid of moving our back and when it becomes painful, it takes over our life. It’s not “oh my back is a bit sore”, it’s usually “I have back pain” or “I have had back pain all my life”. Almost like it’s another member of your family - it’s acknowledged, accepted, and lives its life alongside yours.
Typically, this then brings with it another side of the coin – the “cant’s”. “I can’t bend my back”, “I can’t run because of my back”, “I can’t stand or sit for too long”...you get the picture.
If this is you, I want you to take a moment and think why you think like this. Be honest with yourself, do you know something structural is restricting your movement? Or do you just avoid these activities or movements because you know they will be sore?
As infants we are all born the same (to a degree). Granted there will be those out there with certain restrictions from birth, but we are all influenced by the society around us as we grow. It shapes our beliefs and understanding - what is good and what is bad.
So is bending your back really that bad?
The answer is no. Bending backwards, forwards, side-to-side and rotating are all natural movements that the spine should be allowed to do. Now, does that mean everyone should be able to touch their toes? Probably not – we all have our restrictions (usually tight hamstrings!), but it is a movement that the back should be able to tolerate and not one we should be afraid of.
The secret is how much movement you introduce to your body – and regularly. Motion is lotion. If you avoid movement then of course your body (and specifically your back) won’t enjoy it when you suddenly reach for that sock on the floor that requires a full range of motion. Move more regularly and your back will thank you for it.
Unsure where to start? We offer a wide array of both Pilates and Yoga classes here at Physioflexx and our team of experts can guide you through the process. Links to each are below.
