Lower back pain can have a negative impact on mobility and make it difficult to accomplish daily tasks. In addition to providing spinal alignment, a chiropractor can recommend back exercises to improve flexibility. Here are a few ways being more flexible can help alleviate back pain. 

How Can Being More Flexible Help With Lower Back Pain?

1. Strengthen Supporting Structures

Poor posture, such as hunching, reduces blood circulation and puts strain on abdominal muscles. This, in turn, causes back stiffness and discomfort. Kneeling lunge stretches and other exercises designed to strengthen abdominal and flexor muscles will improve your ability to maintain upright posture. Your muscle strength will increase as a result, which will reduce the tension that leads to an achy, stiff back.

2. Increase Joint Mobility

A walking hip opener is an exercise that involves moving each knee in circles from a standing position. This loosens the glutes, as well as hip flexors, extensors, adductors, and abductors. When these muscles and connective tissue are loose and limber, you'll have full range of motion in hip joints. You'll be able to move your body without difficulty while sitting, standing, and walking, which reduces the risk of back sprains and additional injuries. 

3. Stabilize Damaged Discs

A herniated disc can cause lower back pain, as the inner nucleus leaks out of the exterior casing and presses against surrounding nerves. When you exercise regularly, muscles in the lower back will become flexible enough to support the herniated discs. This will prevent the damaged disc from irritating the surrounding nerves and the pain that comes with it.

To manage lower back pain, reach out to Randy R. Collins, D.C., Inc. in Honolulu, HI. Since 1979, the licensed chiropractor has been providing chiropractic adjustments, physical therapy, and additional solutions to help residents throughout Oahu improve their mobility and quality of life. Call (808) 839-7474 to schedule a chiropractic appointment.