What type of exercise is often recommended for patients with lower back pain?

Yoga and stretching are frequently recommended for patients with lower back pain due to their ability to enhance flexibility, improve core strength, and promote relaxation. These exercises focus on gentle movements that can help alleviate pain, improve posture, and aid in restoring mobility. Yoga, in particular, incorporates various poses that can strengthen the muscles supporting the spine, reduce stiffness, and enhance overall body awareness, which is beneficial for patients dealing with lower back issues.

In contrast, high-intensity interval training may place excessive strain on the back, especially for individuals with existing pain or injury, as it generally involves rapid, intense movements that can exacerbate discomfort. Heavy weightlifting can similarly increase the risk of further injury if not performed with proper technique, particularly for individuals not conditioned to handle loads effectively. Running long distances can also lead to jarring impacts that might aggravate lower back pain, especially if there are pre-existing conditions or biomechanical issues involved.

Therefore, yoga and stretching represent a safer, more gentle approach to exercise for managing lower back pain, focusing on rehabilitation rather than high-impact or high-intensity activities.