Lower back pain can be a persistent issue, but with the right exercises, you can strengthen your back and alleviate discomfort. Here are some of the best post-physical therapy exercises to help you on your journey to a pain-free back.

1. Bridges

How to do it:

1. Lie on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor, hip-width apart.
2. Tighten your abdominal muscles.
3. Lift your hips off the floor until your knees, hips, and shoulders form a straight line.
4. Hold for a few seconds, then slowly lower your hips back to the floor.

Benefits: Bridges strengthen the glutes, hamstrings, and lower back muscles, providing better support for your spine¹.

2. Bird Dogs

How to do it:

1. Start on your hands and knees, with your hands directly under your shoulders and knees under your hips.
2. Tighten your abdominal muscles.
3. Extend your right arm forward and your left leg back, keeping both parallel to the floor.
4. Hold for a few seconds, then return to the starting position.
5. Repeat on the opposite side.

Benefits: Bird dogs improve stability and strengthen the lower back, glutes, and core muscles¹.

3. Cat-Cow Stretch

How to do it:

1. Start on your hands and knees in a tabletop position.
2. Inhale, arch your back, and lift your head and tailbone towards the ceiling (Cow Pose).
3. Exhale, round your back, and tuck your chin to your chest (Cat Pose).
4. Repeat the sequence for several breaths.

Benefits: This stretch increases flexibility in the spine and helps relieve tension in the lower back¹.

4. Knee-to-Chest Stretch

How to do it:

1. Lie on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor.
2. Bring one knee to your chest, keeping the other foot flat on the floor.
3. Hold for 15-30 seconds, then switch legs.
4. Repeat several times.

Benefits: This stretch helps to relax the lower back muscles and relieve tension¹.

5. Pelvic Tilts

How to do it:

1. Lie on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor.
2. Tighten your abdominal muscles and flatten your back against the floor.
3. Hold for a few seconds, then relax.
4. Repeat several times.

Benefits: Pelvic tilts strengthen the abdominal muscles and improve flexibility in the lower back¹.

6. Child’s Pose

How to do it:

1. Start on your hands and knees.
2. Sit back on your heels and stretch your arms forward, lowering your chest towards the floor.
3. Hold for 20-30 seconds, then return to the starting position.

Benefits: Child’s Pose gently stretches the lower back, hips, and thighs, providing relief from tension and pain¹.

Tips for Success

• Consistency is Key: Perform these exercises regularly to see the best results.
• Listen to Your Body: If any exercise causes pain, stop immediately and consult your physical therapist.
• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to keep your muscles hydrated and functioning properly.
• Warm Up: Always warm up before starting your exercise routine to prevent injury.

Incorporating these exercises into your routine can help you manage and reduce lower back pain, improving your overall quality of life. Remember, it’s essential to consult with your physical therapist before starting any new exercise regimen to ensure it’s safe and appropriate for your specific condition.

¹: Sporty Doctor – Best Physical Therapy Exercises for Lower Back Pain