Sports Related Causes of Back Pain
It is a fact that exercise is a necessary part of living a healthy lifestyle. One such way to get the exercise that you need is by taking part in sports. No matter what sport you might choose there is the possibility of a back injury that can cause pain if you do not take preventative measures. The first such measure is in knowing what type of muscle strain is common with the sport of your choice. No matter what sport it is, tennis to bicycling or skiing to weightlifting, there are plenty of opportunities for back pain due to poor posture as well as using improper lift techniques.
It is estimated that a full one-fifth of sports injuries involve either the neck or the lower back. This is due in large part to the amount of repetitive impact that is present in certain sports such as weightlifting and running. These can cause a great deal of damage to the lower back over time. Another sport that can involve injury is football (or any other such contact sport). The risk of whiplash injuries or sudden impact injuries to the neck is very great. The part of the spine that is at the least amount of risk for injury is the mid portion. This is due mainly because of its relative immobility thanks to the rib cage itself. Not to say that it cannot happen, but it is less likely in the long run.
One major problem that plays a part in sports related back injuries is the lack of a warm-up routine for some athletes. This routine should be designed to help get the major muscles that will be utilized ready for their workout. It should also help to limber up the back as well so that it is able to better deal with the stress it is about to have placed upon it. Stretching is very important in this aspect because it can be a front line defense against muscle strain injuries if done properly before hand.
For a warm-up routine to be effective it should include the following steps. First you will need to gradually increase your circulation so that your body is getting the oxygen rich blood it will soon need for the activity to come. This should be done through some sort of light impact aerobic exercise such as walking. This will begin to get the blood flowing more quickly through your body and insure the ligaments and muscles in your back are properly oxygenated.
Next you will need to do some slow stretches of your major muscle groups in the upper and lower back. You will also need to stretch your quadriceps and hamstrings so you do not risk injuring them as well. Next you should begin making the movements that are an integral part of your sport. For example, if you are a golfer then you should go through several motions that simulate swinging your clubs. If you are a weightlifter then you should go through some squats and bends both empty handed and with a very light weight so that you have a bit of resistance.
By warming up properly you can help to offset the risk of suffering from back pain. You can also help to increase the length of time that you will be able to perform. Always remember, it is always better to prevent back pain than it is to treat it.
For more information please go to www.backcaresolutions.net or www.dorntherapycourse.com
About the Author
Barbara Simon is a Natural Therapist, trained in Germany, and specialising in Dorn Spinal Therapy. In 2000 Barbara moved to Australia with her family where she introduced Dorn Spinal Therapy not only as a therapist but also as a successful trainer in Dorn Spinal Therapy for health care practitioners. Apart from Dorn Spinal Therapy she also studied Remedial Massage, Reflexology, Ear acupuncture and Bach flowers.
Back To Back Pain Articles index
|
