Spine and Postural Disorders
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"After a few months at this gym, I began to regain my balance and became able to walk more normally and for longer distance. I am now cane-free and pill-free and able to lead a very active life." -- Mary D. |
A regular exercise program composed of aerobic, resistance, and flexibility training benefits individuals suffering from spine and postural disorders. Lack of muscular strength and endurance along with flexibility in muscles of the legs, hips, and core are often associated with pain of the lower and upper back and neck, as well as problems with balance. Strengthening these muscles in most cases will allow the body to reform into its natural, upright state decreasing back pain, neck pain and even chronic headaches. Strengthening the muscles of the lower extremities and core increases an individual’s ability to rise from a seated position more efficiently, putting less stress on the lower back. Exercising these muscle groups three times per week using resistance training has been proven to prevent the occurrence of osteoporosis in individuals who would normally be most susceptible. According to a recent study done at Harvard University, small boned, thin Caucasian and Asian women are at the highest risk for developing this condition. Smoking, inactivity, family history, alcohol use, certain health conditions and the medications used to treat them, increase an individual’s chances of developing osteoporosis, regardless of sex.