Enhance your flexibility to alleviate discomfort in your lower back.
During my childhood, whenever an elderly character popped up in my favorite cartoons, they often grumbled about their “lumbago.” I remained clueless about what lumbago actually meant for the longest time. It was never explained in school, and my grandparents never brought it up. So, what exactly is lumbago? Recently, I discovered that “lumbago” is a general term for lower back pain. It’s not a specific thing but rather a condition. The origins of the term are still a mystery to me, but we can delve into that later.
Lower back pain is commonly associated with older individuals, but it affects people of all ages. With more individuals spending prolonged periods sitting at desks or in front of computers, lower back pain has become increasingly prevalent. Remaining in a sedentary position for extended periods causes tension in the back muscles, making it challenging to stand, lift objects, or even walk comfortably. If your lower back feels tight, incorporating simple stretches into your routine can help loosen it up.
You don’t need to be a yoga expert to incorporate stretching into your routine; even basic movements you learned in school can be effective. For instance, sitting on the floor and attempting to touch your toes is a simple yet beneficial stretch. As you progress in your forward bending, the likelihood of muscle stiffness decreases.
Another useful stretch is the pelvic tilt. By lying on the floor, contracting your abdominal muscles, and tilting your pelvis upwards and forwards, you can improve blood circulation to your lower back, promoting muscle stimulation and healing.
The main point is to engage in stretching exercises that differ from your daily activities. By stretching your lower back from a young age, you may reduce your chances of experiencing lumbagos in later years.