Tips For Exercise

---

Maintenance of torso flexibility and strength are essential for a healthy spine. Simple, easy back exercises should be performed daily and should be included in your normal exercise routine. It is necessary that the abdominals, as well as the back muscles be strong so that the front and back of the spine is stabilized. The lower abdominals are especially important because they form a muscular brace when properly activated and strengthened.

The large muscles of hip and thigh, the gluteus, quadriceps and hamstrings, need to be strong so that during lifting they are able to take the burden off of the torso, thereby protecting the spinal joints and back muscles from injury. Improved flexibility can be achieved through daily stretching. It is important that flexibility of the spine, shoulder girdle and pelvic girdle be maintained so that the normal curvature of the spine is maintained during all activities.