CAN SWIMMING MAKE YOUR BACK BETTER? Back injuries are common for active people. Swimming is one of the best ways to rehabilitate an injured back. Here’s why you should take the plunge: Why is swimming good for bad backs? Swimming is active stretching, ensuring your back goes through a full range of motion. Water is supportive, so most of the pressure on your back is released while you swim. It is low impact. Swimming doesn’t jar your joints but still provides some resistance for muscles to work against. Swimming strengthens the back and core muscles, and helps ease lower back pain. Remember!! Before you go for your first swim, get a diagnosis from your doctor. There are many causes of back pain so make sure you’re not making it worse. This guide to back pain may also be helpful. Different strokes for different folks… Breaststroke is easiest to start with, although some people find it strains their neck and lower back. This sometimes happens when the lower back is hyper extended during the stroke. Try to keep your head and neck still, or wear goggles if possible. If you have a good technique, you may tolerate it well. Many people find front crawl or back crawl easier on their back. Because your spine is rolling rather than extending, less pressure is put on your lower back. But only do it when you’re ready. Avoid making jerky head movements and keep the crown of your head pointing forwards. Other options include the side stroke. A flotation device can also help back pain. Either held between your legs to reduce lower back pain, or by your chest to avoid stress on upper back muscles. If you really can’t tolerate swimming, or can’t swim, consider trying gentle aqua aerobics. According to a Japanese study swimming at least twice-weekly gave optimum results. A three-month gym/swim pass could be the ideal way to get those visits in!
Posted on: Mon, 01 Dec 2014 11:00:00 +0000