Back Stretch

Video with beginner to advanced version of this well known yoga pose, cobra.

It is great for strengthening and toning back muscles.
It starts with the easiest version for the total newbie and stiffer folk. Then she progresses through more advanced setup.

This pose can be great for some types of back pain problems, but not so good for others. Along with strengthening your back muscles, it is also good for the lower abdominals and the muscles in your pelvis.

People with disc problems seem to benefit the most from cobra pose.

If you have facet joint problems, like example, spondylolisthesis, practice cobra pose cautiously, if at all. Facet joint problems tend to become irritated when the spine is arched. Check with your doctor or physical therapist to see if this pose is okay for your condition.

If you are a beginner, proceed tenderly. There is no reason to strain, regardless of your condition. If it hurts, stop right away. This pose, or any yoga pose, should be pleasant.

Child’s pose is a great follow up pose to do after cobra.

Video

Did you know that there are lots of people walking around with disc bulge, but have no pain. At the same time folks are suffering from sciatica pain, due to a disc problem. What’s the big difference? – Inflammation

One study used MRI’s to look at people with no back pain symptoms. “Normal” people as one would say. It turns out that 30% of these people have a disc issue, like a disc bulge.

Just goes to show you, if you have a disc problem that is causing pain, it may be possible to reduce the pain, without invasive surgery.

Consulting with a good chiropractor, is a good first step in dealing with sciatica pain and disc issues.