Have you been experiencing low back pain for a while?
We know how frustrating and worrying it can be when you are constantly being dragged down by a stiff and achy back. After a while, it can really take a toll on your mental health and affect your personal life too! We know this because we help people just like you all the time!
Here’s something to think about…while the pain is in your back, your hips may actually be the cause of the problem!
If you’ve been suffering from a stiff lower back and not sure why, then maybe the cause of your pain isn’t in the back at all. When our hips are tight, it affects our posture and the way we move, leading to compensations that tend to trigger lower back pain.
Tight hips can cause an anterior pelvic tilt, where the pelvis tilts forward, creating an excessive curvature in the lower back, causing a strain on the muscles. That’s why you may be experiencing pain and lower back stiffness. Tight hips and low back pain go hand in hand. The good news is that you can do something about it!
Here are some key tips to loosen up that stiff back and ease your pain!
Regular Hip Stretches
Stretching is one of the best ways to loosen up tight hips. You can try some simple stretches that target the hip flexors, glutes and piriformis muscles. Do them regularly and your lower back pain and stiffness should slowly start to improve with time.
Strengthen Your Core
Doing core strengthening exercises can help relieve and prevent lower back pain! Strong core muscles support the lower back and improve your posture, reducing the strain on your lower back muscles.
Correct Your Posture
Try to maintain good posture while sitting and standing to prevent excessive strain on the lower back. Adjust your chair, desk and computer to ensure they are ergonomically friendly and have you in a good alignment. When standing, make sure you distribute your weight evenly to avoid putting extra pressure on one side. Poor posture can lead to a stiff lower back and affect your overall balance and health, so make sure you keep it right!
Regular Physical Activity
One way to keep your hips mobile is to move them regularly. You can do this by engaging in activities such as walking, cycling or swimming. Physical activity offers numerous health benefits, including improved cardiovascular health, decreased stress levels and better sleep.
The Best Treatment For Low Back Pain & Stiffness...Seek Help From Your Physical Therapist
If you’re tired of suffering from lower back pain and you’re desperate to put it behind you so you can start feeling good again, then you might need some extra help.
These tips are great if your case is not so severe, but if you’ve been suffering already for longer than you can remember, then its time to seek specialist help!
Our team at Tandem Physical Therapy & Pilates is ready to guide you on your journey to better health…and there’s no better time than NOW!
Call us at 504-407-3477 to get started today!