Breathing and Back Pain
- Posted on: May 26 2017
Natural abdominal breathing is an indispensable part of restoring injured areas to normal function. When you are experiencing back pain even simple movements can be excruciatingly painful. It is an involuntary response to protect your body from further pain. You may find that you are holding the body stiffly and breathing shallowly to avoid moving the injured area. However, because the diaphragm has connective tissue attachments to the lumbar spine, breathing can actually help restore normal movements.
If you have been breathing into your upper diaphragm for an extended period of time, it may take a while to change your habit. You may also experience discomfort into your low back when you are beginning this exercise. However, be persistent with your abdominal breathing daily, until it becomes part of your routine and the muscle in your back begin to relax.
Gently place the tip of your tongue on the roof of your mouth with your lips touching as you breathe in and out through your nose during the entire exercise. Place your hands on your lower abdomen to help focus your breath into this area. Begin, by taking a gentle, slow and full inhalation through your nose and at the same time blow your belly up like a big balloon. Next, gently exhale through your nose as you deflate your belly as if it is a deflating balloon.
Abdominal breathing exercise strengthens lung and heart function, promotes more efficient exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide, keeps the blood pure, the brain nourished, and calms the mind. Becoming more aware of your breath also creates a stronger connection between you and your healing process.
http://centerforspineandortho.com/news/breathing-exercises-and-lower-back-pain/
Posted in: Acupuncture
