Chronic lower back pain can interrupt your daily life and prove difficult to relieve. With the assistance of a pain relief therapist, though, you can take control again. One common tool recommended by professionals is an exercise ball. If you’re unfamiliar with how they’re used to treat back issues, here’s a closer look.

Why Core Strength Is Important

One of the most common causes of lower back pain is overworked, pulled, or weakened muscles in the spine. Other causes include herniated discs and degenerative disease.

While a chiropractor or physical therapist can help diagnose the cause, it’s almost definite that muscle-strengthening exercises will be part of your recovery. Strengthening the muscles that support your spine and torso—commonly referred to as the core muscles—can provide more stability, help hold the spine in alignment, and reduce the risk of future injury. 

How an Exercise Ball Can Help

An exercise ball builds muscles in your spine and core while improving your posture. It’s a low-impact way to begin stretching and strengthening your back when recovering from an injury or chronic pain.

With simple exercises and regular use, it can improve your posture during exercise, enhance the flexibility and mobility in your spine, and reduce the stress on your lower back. It also improves coordination and muscle control in your core and spine while promoting disc health. 

How to Get Started

After you’ve acquired an exercise ball and recommendations from a pain relief therapist, there are various exercises you can do to get started. Incorporating a few different ones in your routine will provide the most effective pain relief.

For instance, you can focus on stretching your lower spinal and pelvic muscles by sitting on the ball and working your lower back muscles. This is done by shifting your hips forward and backward or side to side. You can also work all your back muscles by kneeling with your hands on the ball, rolling it slightly out from you then rolling it side to side while keeping your hips still. 

Do you need pain management guidance for your lower back pain? The skilled team at O’Fallon Pain Relief Associates in St. Charles County, MO, will help you regain a pain-free existence through physical therapy, chiropractic care, and medication, if needed. With over a decade of experience, they’ll provide targeted, individualized care to eliminate your pain through conservative and lasting measures. Learn more about their practices online and call (636) 978-3000 for a consultation today.