One thing that sets Dr. Mark Giovanini of NeuroMicroSpine apart from other spine surgeons is his personal and transparent approach to spine care. The neurosurgeon strives to deliver honest, unbiased information based solely on the patient’s healthcare needs.
Therefore, when patients complain of back pain and are not necessarily candidates for minimally invasive spine surgery, Dr. Giovanini may recommend other forms of treatment. Wellness medicine has always been a big part of the doctor’s practice, because he believes in providing a variety of spine care solutions available to the general population. One of these methods includes physical therapy and fitness.
Against widespread belief, exercising can actually help alleviate some level of back pain, primarily because activity allows damaged discs in your back to exchange fluids. When spinal discs are healthy, they absorb and squeeze out water to distribute nutrients. This fluid exchange can help reduce swelling and pain. Plus, adequate exercise and stretching helps reduce stiffness, keeps ligaments and tendons flexible, and strengthens muscles that support the back.
If you’re looking to strengthen these supportive muscles, try one or more of the following back exercises. These exercises should be done under the supervision of a trained professional, so consult Dr. Giovanini or a member of his team before trying these by yourself.
Partial Crunches
Partial crunches can help strengthen your back muscles and provide some pain relief. To start, lie flat on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor. Raise your shoulders a few inches off the ground and breathe out. Hold the position for about a second or two and then lower down slowly. Do not sit all the way up; this is a partial crunch. Also keep your lower back, tailbone and feet flat on the floor at all times.
Wall Sits
Wall sits are a great way to relieve back pain and increase core strength. Stand straight against a sturdy wall, lower down slowly until your knees are slightly bent and at a 90-degree angle, and then hold the position for about 10-15 seconds. Breathe and keep your knees bent. After the allotted time, slowly move away from the wall and repeat 5-7 times.
Low-Impact Exercises
Low impact exercises like walking, stationary bicycling, elliptical training or using the step machine can also help strengthen your back. Additionally 30-40 minutes of aerobic exercise can produce endorphins and decrease pain symptoms. Talk to Dr. Giovanini about safe, low-impact exercises that will work best for you.
Dr. Giovanini will be adding extensive wellness medicine services that will include iPerformance Physical Therapy and Lifestyle coaching. This unique option will enhance a patient’s recovery from neck and back injuries by focusing on physical conditioning, hormone balance and nutrition. The innovative center will also feature pain management and anti-aging specialists to provide a holistic approach to spine care.
So tell us, what are some of your favorite exercises? What are some challenges you face as far as physical activity goes?
For more information on minimally invasive spine surgery or to make an appointment with Dr. Giovanini, please call (850) 934-7545 or visit http://www.neuromicrospine.com/request-appointment.
We hope to see you soon!
The advice and information contained in this article is for educational purposes only, and is not intended to replace or counter a physician’s advice or judgment. Please always consult your physician before taking any advice learned here or in any other educational medical material.
©NeuroMicroSpine, 2014
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