Swimming and Spinal Health
The new school year and Fall may be quickly approaching, but there is still time to take advantage of the summer season. And with that comes swimming! Not only is a dip in the water refreshing, it can also be an excellent workout. Swimming puts little to no stress on the back, is suitable for all ages, and is low-impact so it works well for those who have issues with high impact exercises or sports. Even if you aren’t a swimmer, there are plenty of activities to do in the pool that are just as effective as a long swim, including water aerobics. Here are some of the benefits of taking your exercises underwater.
STRESS RELIEF!
Isn’t there just something therapeutic about being in the water? That’s because water alters the tension that gravity puts on your body, which is particularly beneficial for those with joint issues or arthritis. Water also helps your body relax. For those with back issues, water exercises are ideal as they help reduce the impact that movement on the ground can have on your spine.
LOW IMPACT EXERCISE
A workout doesn’t have to be high impact to be effective, and low impact exercises like swimming put less stress on the body. Water provides natural resistance that strengthens muscles without the strain that weightlifting causes. If you suffer from back pain, water exercises are a great way to build strength and keep active.
INCREASED PHYSICAL ENDURANCE
Swimming is a great form of exercise not only for building strength, but also for increased physical endurance. Lifting heavy weights might not be a part of aquatic exercise, but water offers a great deal of resistance. That resistance allows for muscles and endurance to grow. Many chiropractors (ourselves included) suggest water therapy for those managing back pain to build back strength and correct posture.
If you would like to learn more about the benefits of water workouts for your spine, just ask during your next adjustment or contact us. We are happy to provide the tools to manage and treat your back pain!