Back Information

When considering back exercises, or addressing a back injury, consultation with a certified medical professional is advised.

Stretching and strengthening of the back to improve performance and prevent or reduce the degree of potential back injury is the smart way to start any sports endeavor.

Back pain of a mechanical origin occurs when the joint between two bones has been placed in a position that overstretches surrounding ligaments and other soft tissue, which can cause excessive load or strain on the soft tissue thereby creating site or referred pain in the body.

Most strain on the spine occurs at a point of the spine just above a junction with the pelvis (the lumbar-sacral segment of the spine), the anatomical location that carries the weight of the upper torso. In golf and racquet sports where the upper body is rotated, this area can encounter measurable torque forces on the spine. Thus, the low back is the most prominent anatomical site for back stress, injury and associated pain. And, this is the site of most injuries or pain in non-professional golfers and racquet sports.

Other factors which are common causes of mechanical low back pain are postural stress, frequently brought on by sitting in a poor posture position, prolonged bending, excessive heavy lifting, standing or lying for a prolonged period in a poor anatomical position. It is important to use a lumbar roll when sitting, or get into the habit of sitting on an exercise ball. All back and neck problems need to be addressed with exercise that strengthens and stretches the upper extremities, lower extremities and trunk. Kits are available in the exercise section of this site.

If you are currently struggling with back or neck pain, the most important first step is learning how to control your symptoms and the mechanical cause of the pain. A professional, easy to read, reference source for conditioning and rehabilitation of the back is Treat Your Own Back, and is highly recommended for anyone who suffers back pain. Companion books are Treat Your Own Strains, Sprains and Bruises and Treat Your Own Neck.

In addition to the products that help you learn how to manage your spinal problems, Sport Therapies can also offer the following self-help aids as effective devices to strengthen the back, or address low back pain caused by injury or imbalance of the feet and ankles. See all products on the Back Products page.

BioFreeze is a topical ointment that is greaseless, stainless with no lingering odor.

Lumbar sacral chair support and lumbar rolls are a great way to improve your posture while sitting. It is a must if you have pain with prolonged sitting. Improving sitting prosture is the most important part of managing spinal problems.

Lumbar sacral back supports are helpful when you need a reminder to stay up straight while moving and listing while providing a compression to the involved area.

Cryotherapy Ice Wraps products are helpful to manage the early onset of back pain or reaggrevation episodes. We offer two sizes to handle different areas of the body. Small for wrist, elbow, ankle, neck - Large - shoulder, low back and hip.

Back pain that occurs primarily with prolonged standing and walking may benefit by addressing the feet. Many people that struggle with back and hip pain while standing and walking may report that they may or may not have foot and lower leg discomfort. Many people benefit from good "shocks and tires" for the feet to help prolong the amount of time they can spend on their feet in athletic competition, work, golf, etc. Custom insoles and pre-manufactured insoles work well.