Posted on December 27, 2007 in Spinal Arthritis
Researchers claim that spinal arthritis is a result of the wear and tear of cartilages between the facet joints in the spine. Alternative therapies like exercise and massage therapy have recorded a phenomenal increase due to their natural approach and treatment. Find out how and why exercises and massage work for reducing neck and back aches caused by spinal arthritis.
With millions of people suffering from spinal arthritis, alternative therapies like exercise and massage therapy are gaining much importance. Spinal arthritis is more common among women or after attaining the age of fifty. It is an extremely painful condition of the spine marked by strain caused to the surrounding nerves. Skilful demonstrations have proved that neck and back pain prevents muscle function which can be comforted with exercises.
Benefits of exercise for spinal arthritis:
Experts claim that regular exercise has a number of benefits for neck and back pains. They include the following:
- Increases blood circulation
- Increases flexibility and strength of muscles and joints
- Reduces pain and stiffness at joints
- Controls weight
- Increases energy
- Improves attitude
Types of exercises for spinal arthritis:
A combination of the following exercises can help comfort the spine and the neighboring joints and muscles:
- Range of Motion Exercises: Side, back and forward stretches can help in improving flexibility to the back and neck muscles.
- Aerobic Exercises: Exercises like water therapy, walking and stationary cycling can help in strengthening the muscles of the back. These low impact exercises also help in increasing blood circulation and in reducing body weight.
- Strengthening Exercises: Weight machines and exercise bands are usually used in strength training exercises. These exercises help in increasing the strength and flexibility of back muscles.
Swim to release the stress on your neck and back:
Swimming can be an enjoyable and effective exercise for treating spinal arthritis. Infact, researchers are of the opinion that swimming is one of the best forms of exercise for reducing joint pains and osteoarthritis because of the following reasons:
- Causes less stress to the back due to water buoyancy
- Reduces any irritation on the back
- Reduces the risk of further injury
- Reduces muscular and joint pain
Tips to start exercising for spinal arthritis:
After discussing the benefits and the suitability of exercises for curing spinal arthritis one can engage in a regular fitness program. Here are tips to start exercising for spinal arthritis:
- Discuss the exercise plans with a doctor or physiotherapist
- Exercise with the supervision and guidance of a physical therapist or instructor
- Discuss the effects of either hot or cold compressors for your back
- Start with low impact exercises or machines
- Set realistic targets
- Aerobic exercises like walking, swimming are good to start with
- Ensure that you make your exercise regime enjoyable and flexible to your needs and conditions
When should you stop exercising?
Stop exercising if you face the following conditions or symptoms of discomfort:
- Increased exhaustion
- Reduced range of motion
- Increase in joint swelling
- Continuous joint pain lasting for more than one hour
Many spinal osteoarthritis sufferers believe that golf, stretching or meditation techniques associated with yoga can help relieving spine stress. So alleviate your arthritis symptoms by discussing the suitability and effectiveness of an exercise regime with a doctor or physiotherapist.
Massage therapy for spinal arthritis:
Massage is also considered effective for treating spinal arthritis. It is a process that relaxes and repairs infected tissues by releasing endorphins which are natural chemicals that suppress pain. As much as 75 percent of the healthcare providers suggest massage therapies for treating spinal arthritis.
Why massage therapy for spinal arthritis?
A massage therapy is effective for treating spinal arthritis due to the following reasons:
- Increases blood circulation
- Reduces muscle and bone tension
- Increases the endorphin levels that help in reducing pain
Spinal arthritis can curb your day to day activities. Ensure that you seek the right guidance for exercising or massaging your back and neck muscles to get rid of spinal arthritis.
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