Simple Physical Therapy for Your Back

  • By Grappin Clinic
  • 29 May, 2019

Core Strength: Physical Therapy for the Spine

Hi my name is Jesse Mathers, I'm a physical therapist at Duke University Medical Center. I see people every day with back pain and physical therapy can be an invaluable tool in reducing back pain and getting people back to the activities they love.

A physical therapist will conduct a thorough interview and examination tom help determine what your limitations and goals are and develop a customized program just for you.

We're going to show you two exercises today that help strengthen your body's core. The body's core is made up of abdominal muscles, hip, pelvic and spine muscles that help support your spine. Having a strong core can help prevent back pain and alleviate back pain.

Before starting an exercise program you may want to consult with your doctor to make sure everything's okay.
physical-therapy-back-pain-bridge-exercise
Let's get started. The first exercise is called a bridge. Lie on your back and bend your knees. Tighten your abdominal muscles as if you are putting on a pair of tight pants. Try not to hold your breath. Now slowly lift your hips off the bed as high as you can squeezing your gluteal muscles together. Hold a few seconds and slowly lower back down. There should not be any back pain associated with this exercise
back-physical-therapy-plank-exercise
The next exercise is called a side plank. Lie on your side with your shoulders, hips and knees aligned in a straight line. Prop yourself on your elbow and look straight ahead to protect your neck. Leaving your knees on the mat, lift your hips off the mat as far as you can, hold for several seconds and slowly lower down.

You'll want to do this exercise on both sides and you can practice holding it for up to 30 seconds. For a more difficult version extend your legs and go up on your feet and elbow. Practice holding this exercise for thirty seconds.

On behalf of Duke physical therapy, thanks for watching and we hope you feel better soon.

To schedule an evaluation with one of our physical therapy specialists call Grappin Clinic today at (941) 426-9551
By Grappin Clinic April 29, 2025
What if you could reduce stress by visiting a chiropractor? And what if we said there are other notable benefits of chiropractic care that go beyond reducing aches and pains? Well, keep on reading if you want to know more.
By Grappin Clinic April 22, 2025
Do you want to know the keys to improving your quality of life and your body? Well, there are a few things that all of us can do every day that can help get us there.
By Grappin Clinic April 15, 2025
If you don’t know what you’re supposed to do after being in a car accident, with TBI or not, don’t worry. Keep on reading to learn everything you need to know about TBI and car accident injuries.
By Grappin Clinic April 8, 2025
Personal injury attorneys often emphasize the significance of meticulous record-keeping and provide valuable tips for effectively documenting your injuries. This article explores why documenting your injuries is essential and offers practical advice for doing so.
By Grappin Clinic March 31, 2025
There are various types of massage therapies, including sports massage, trigger point massage, deep tissue massage, and Swedish massage. Although these treatments can range in pressure, they all offer invaluable benefits for the body, mind, and spirit. Read on for the top six benefits of massage therapy.
By Grappin Clinic March 25, 2025
Classic clues of an out-of-balance gut include: feeling tired much of the time, catching colds easily and more often, allergies, food sensitivities, and having frequent gastrointestinal issues like gas, bloating, diarrhea, and constipation, etc.
By Grappin Clinic March 19, 2025
Chiropractic adjustments and techniques are a range of therapeutic approaches that are used to treat joint dysfunctions and musculoskeletal pain, as well as other health issues. Read on to learn if it's right for you...
By Grappin Clinic March 11, 2025
Are you looking for a new, effective way to improve your physical health? Medical massage therapy is here to provide the natural health benefits you need. From optimizing circulation to relieving muscle tension and inflammation, medical massage is a powerful treatment for pain reduction and overall wellness.
More Posts