Ask the Doctors | January 2005

Ask the Doctors
By Drs. Jeff, Craig and Marissa

Question: My back hurts…what can I do?

Answer: Lower back pain can be devastating and debilitating. If you are experiencing any kind of lower back pain, please pay attention to this article. 80% of Americans will develop some form of back pain, mostly due to a lack of prevention and proper care. So here are some time tested techniques that can be used to prevent and remedy back pain. Most of these strategies will be familiar to you, but ask yourself… are you implementing them?

1. Stretching. If you are not stretching daily…you need to start today! If you are already experiencing back pain, then get your joints moving before you start your Curves workout. Motion will create blood flow and blood flow will create supple tissues, preventing the tearing of critical ligaments and muscles. After your workout, don't skip the stretch chart! This is the time to deepen the stretches and improve your flexibility. Focus on #12 and your hamstrings.
2. Absolutely hit your abs. Strong abs act like a supportive stabilizing belt for your lower back. Focus on the 3 abdominal machines and concentrate on isolating the contraction of those abdominal muscles. If you want to strengthen further, perform controlled crunches on your off days too!
3. Take the miracle supplement that feeds your joints. Study after study shows that the supplement glucosamine sulfate feeds the cartilage that provides cushion between your bones. Your body naturally produces glucosamine sulfate on its own, however, as you age you produce less and less of it. We recommend at least 1000mg of glucosamine sulfate per day (a liquid form is best because of its higher absorption rate).
4. Contact a back specialist. Chiropractors, acupuncturists, and massage therapists have been successfully eliminating back conditions for decades. Don't make the critical mistake that most people make, by waiting until it's too late.

Don't wait to become another statistic. Most back problems are completely preventable if you take the necessary steps.