Best Exercise Equipment for Back Pain

When you are experiencing back pain, you may be finding it difficult to get into a workout routine. Traditional exercises like stomach workouts, heavy lifting, and push ups are not recommended for those who are experiencing back pain, as they put unnecessary stress on your joints. That stress puts you at risk for spine damage, which can cause more intense back pain. However, experiencing back pain does not mean you are out of good workout options. Applicable exercise equipment exists for those with back pain.

Elliptical Trainer

The elliptical trainer is usually the first choice for exercise equipment suited for those with back pain. The machines have separate foot platforms that move back and forth in smooth, steady glides. Your feet don’t leave these platforms as they move, so you avoid the jolt that puts stress on your joints from other workouts, like running. You can have elliptical trainers go up to high speeds without damaging your back, and most trainers usually have handles you can hold and twist with to help support your back. Different trainers have different settings and designs. If you are considering an elliptical trainer for your back pain, consult with a doctor which would be the best fit.

Step Machine

Similar to an elliptical trainer, the step machine also has foot platforms, except they move up and down instead of gliding back and forth. Much like an elliptical trainer, the step machine does not require you to take your feet off the platforms, making it a good, low impact exercise machine for those with back pain. The best workout comparison for a step machine is walking up stairs, without the jolt accompanied with that motion. Keep in mind that step machines have stationary rails on both sides. You should avoid holding on to these rails. Doing so can make your back rigid, which can hurt the way the machine is intended to help those with back pain.

Modified Exercise Bike

Traditional exercise bikes usually have the rider leaning down when cycling. This bent position puts added stress to your spine’s lumbar curve. Luckily, there are exercise bikes that exist to accommodate for back pain. An upright exercise bike is one that allows riding in an upright, standing position. For those looking for more comfort, there are also recumbent exercise bikes. These offer more back support and a reclining position, but there are also debates that for this same reason they give less of a cardiovascular benefit. If you have back pain and are trying to decide which exercise bike would be better for you, make sure to speak with your doctor.

Chronic back pain affects millions of Americans. It is important to accommodate for daily tasks like working out by finding the best exercise equipment for your back pain. At Garden State Pain Control, we are specialists in consulting those with back pain to help get it under control. Contact us today in one of our New Jersey clinics for an appointment.