I just returned from a three-day Middle Eastern Dance Instructor's Course, and while I don't have photos of myself belly dancing to show you (trust me, you don't want to see them!), I do have a good back pain tip.
The instructor was a registered massage therapist with strong knowledge of anatomy and body mechanics. She said that one of the best things office workers can do for their backs is to sit part of the day on an exercise ball.
This view is shared by the experts at Spine-Health.com, who say:
The exercise ball can be used as a replacement for a chair at work or home. The movement of the Swiss exercise ball requires muscular response to keep one’s center of gravity and maintain balance on the ball. This stimulates the deeper trunk muscles (multifidus and transverse abdominus) that are important in supporting the spine, and reduces static loading on any one structure in the spine.
Spine-Health.com also provides advice on precautions to take when considering using an exercise ball.
Exercise balls can be purchased at any department store or sports store, as well as online. Be sure to check the height recommendations to make sure you buy the right size ball.
I'm going to go out and buy a ball - I'll let you know how it works for me.
(photo courtesy of the SPRI website)
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Even though this is a plug for a product. It works. www.myuglychair.com I know it works because I bought the company....last week and the chairs are already solving people's low back pain. Thanks, Norm
Posted by: Norm | August 29, 2006 1:09 PM | Permalink to Comment