I am new to Traineo and am excited to find all this great information.. I am a YOUNG 56 with the exception of some arthritis in my lower back. I love walking and working out but it can cause some pain.. I want to find exercises that can help improve my back and strengthen it..

thanks

Brooke,

I have an arthritic shoulder with a degenerative a/c joint, so I feel your pain. Take all things in moderation, this is certainly true with your workouts. Only you know how much pain you can handle, and if it is worth working out. As for me, I do what I need to do, and worship ibupropen as necessary. You may find extensive stretching before you workout will help you. I hope you find the perfect solution!

Mark

I have degenerative lumbar joints with arthritis there as well. I love to play basketball, and used to run as well, but both are lower back nightmares. Two years ago, i began riding road bikes. This has turned out to be the best and most enjoyable exercise activity that does not hurt my back at all. As is true for any roadie when he/she starts, my neck and shoulders took some time to get into condition, but my lower back has been stronger and given me less trouble since i've been riding.

Brooke, Can you take a few yoga lessons to learn postures that will strengthen your lower back? Good form when doing lower back exercises is very important. Especially when there is a precondition like arthritis or injury. Since I started yoga, my core (Abs and back) has become far stronger than when I was doing conventional strength straining. In my city we have physio therapists who specialize in yoga based treatment. They are willing to give you a few lessons to teach you specific exercises that you can continue to practice on your own. This makes it a very safe and cost effective approach. Perhaps you could explore if this is an option near where you live?

Another suggestion is to go to amazon.com and serach for books about back pain. There are a few books that seem to have good back strengthening exercises along with detailed instructions on how to do them correctly for different types of conditions. The reviews at amazon are helpful to ensure you buy the right book. Like this one for instance URL

All the best.

Vrinda