Exercise is beneficial for several health problems: blood pressure, arthritis, diabetes- just to name a few. So how can you exercise if you are suffering from chronic back pain? Getting in the pool might be the answer you're looking for. There isn't just one way the water can help you- here is why you can reap the benefits of water exercise for back pain.
Water is an ideal place for people with spine and joint pain to exercise thanks to buoyancy. Water restrains the downward force of gravity and reduce the weight of body on joints. 50% of your weight is supported in waist deep water. Furthermore, 90% of your weight is supported in neck deep water. For example, exercising by swimming laps or doing water aerobics can lessen the pressure on your spine. This helps to relieve the pressure on herniated discs and help maintain better spinal alignment.
Swimming is a full body activity that activates all the muscles groups that stabilize the spine. Better spine stability will improve posture, spinal alignment and reduce strain on muscles. With the added buoyancy in the water, many individuals with back pain are able to strengthen their arms and legs with less discomfort. Exercising your arms with common swimming strokes strengthens the upper and middle back muscles, and kicks increase strength in the lower back and pelvis.
Floating in water has the ability to relax the body's nervous system. Therefore, exercising in the water can allow regularly tense muscles to loosen up and provide more flexibility. Additionally, you will be able to exercise more freely with the body relaxed. Studies show that people who exercise in the water experienced less anxiety and more mental relaxation.
Exercising in the water is a great way to get a full body work out. As a result of large muscle groups working together, the body is able to increase cardiac output and improve cardiovascular health. In addition to a full body workout, many back pain sufferers exercise for longer amounts of time in the water. Doctors recommend a minimum of 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity per week for cardiovascular health.
https://www.cdc.gov/healthywater/swimming/swimmers/health_benefits_water_exercise.html
