Low back pain is a common problem, and it affects nearly 85% of people at one time or another. There are many treatments for low back pain and many things you should avoid doing if you have low back pain. Exercise has been proven to be an effective self-care treatment for many people with low back pain, sciatica, or other symptoms that come from the low back.
The flexion rotation exercise is a simple stretch that you can do if you have back pain. It is used mainly in the treatment of back pain that is located on one side of the back. If you have pain on the side of your back, in your buttocks, or down one leg, this exercise may be the one that offers significant relief.
Remember, it is always best to check with your doctor or physical therapist before starting any exercise program. Sometimes, simple diagnostic studies like x-rays are necessary before treating your own condition.
To begin the flexion rotation exercise, lie on your side. Most often, you should lie on the painful side. For example, if you are feeling right-sided back and thigh pain, lie on your right side. Keep your bottom leg straight and slowly bend your top knee. Then hook your top foot behind your bottom leg.
If your pain is too severe to allow for you to lie on your side, try some more basic low back stretches before attempting the flexion rotation stretch.
