I'm Setting a Goal - Need Your Advice

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Hello Fellow Parents,

I’ve been really thinking my goals for next year. I cannot miss a day of work from my chronic lower back pain like I did this year.

Decided to get myself exercising but not sure what’s best for beginners.

My biggest fear is that I’m going to hurt my back even further because I’m experiencing sciatica like pains but I need exercise.

Saw some great yoga stretches on this site and am leaning towards signing up for a Yoga Program.

backrestored.com/office-worker-back-pain-issues-6-movement-advice-for-employees/

I’ve set aside some time for game planning this year to reach my goal.

Has anyone used Yoga to try and help their back issues?

Whenever I've been to a yoga class, the instructors ask first for anyone to tell them if they have any injuries or disabilities or pain, and then throughout all have reiterated that you should be listening to your body.
Of course, how much any particular instructor knows about keeping you safe, and healthy and our of pain is anyone's guess.

Swimming is generally recognised as being excellent exercise as of course the water takes the weight of your body, but I think you have to be a good swimmer with a decent stroke to benefit and not strain anything further.

Have you been under any practitioner who might advise you A physio or the like ?

Walking is great exercise too.

I did loads of Pilates on the advice of my physio when I had back and pelvis issues. Now the downside is I truly hate it, but it did help me build strength and core stability safely so I could build back to the stuff I actually wanted to do.

I imagine there’s a fair amount of crossover with yoga in terms of benefits if that’s what’s appealing to you

I am swimming twice a week to help my back. I have chronic back pain from an injury from 30 odd years ago, not sciatica though. It does help. i swim very slowly, and only breastroke but I do feel looser in my muscles.

Chronic lower back pain can be linked to weak glutes as well. So anything that gently strengthens that area can be good even chair squats.

This has some useful advice
www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/the-safe-way-to-do-yoga-for-back-pain

The key thing is to think about what is causing your back pain in the first place. If there is a structural problem rather than just stiff muscles then it would be worth speaking to a physio before you start. Some health authorities allow you to self refer to the NHS physio service.

another vote for pilates but find a good class where they will make sure you're using the right techniques

Can you speak to your gp