Backaches
Tai Chi
Tai chi is an ancient form of martial arts
that is soft and slow, making it great for people who have back pain.
The Taoist Tai Chi Society's Medical Advisers have documented that tai
chi helps improve posture, reduce spinal degeneration, maintain
flexibility of joints, improve balance, and increase strength and
stability in the lower back. Everyone can benefit from tai chi; if you
can’t do the exercises standing up, you can still do many of them while
sitting in a chair.
Unlike yoga, tai chi requires extensive movement, but is less jarring
to the joints than aerobic exercise. It’s almost impossible to describe
how to do a tai chi movement correctly—you really need to see someone
else doing it to understand. There are numerous videos you can check
out if you’re interested, and some video stores offer free exercise
video rentals. Libraries may have videos, too. The best way to learn
tai chi, though, is from an instructor, and classes tend to be
relatively inexpensive. Take a class or two just to learn the movements
and you’ll be able to practice at home on your own.
Stretching
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This information is not presented by a medical practitioner and is for educational and informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read.