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How Strong is Your Backbone?

You’ve all heard the quotes:

“Small business is the backbone of the economy” Ellen Tauscher

“Toughness is not being a bully, its’ having a backbone” Robert Kiyosake

The backbone of success is …hard work, determination, good planning
and perseverance” Mia Hamm

 

The backbone has long signified strength, support, sturdiness and fortitude.  However, osteoporosis in the spine can leave many feeling fearful that their weakened backbone may crumble and collapse.

Osteoporosis of the spine can lead to microfractures in the vertebrate.  Over time these microfractures progressively weaken the bone and can lead to compression fractures and kyphosis, the rounding or hunching of the upper back.  Both kyphosis and compression fractures are not only painful, but can interfere with walking, bending and daily activities. Regular strengthening exercises targeting the spine from your neck to lower back can help prevent bone loss, relieve stress on your bones and build muscle strength to help you maintain posture and reduce your risk of a fracture.

Strengthening the muscles that support the spine has been shown to reduce kyphosis, decrease the risk of vertebral fractures and improve the mobility of individuals with osteoporosis. The back extensor muscles are one of the most critical muscles because they are the main supportive muscle of the spine.  These muscles, known as the erector spinae muscles, extend your spine backwards and are involved in maintaining an erect posture. When back extensor strength of healthy women was compared with that of women with osteoporosis, these muscles were found to be significantly weaker in women with osteoporosis. There also appears to be a relationship between decreased bone mass and reduced muscle mass of the back extensors in postmenopausal osteoporotic women. Back extension strengthening has also been shown to significantly decrease progression of kyphosis and may also reduce the risk of vertebral compression fractures.  Therefore, back exercises, whether for prevention or treatment, are one of the major tools for maintaining a healthy posture, lowering the risk of vertebral fracture and improving quality of life in people with osteoporosis.

The following exercises are designed to strengthen the erector spinae muscles, the muscles that run from the neck to the tail bone and lie in the groove to the side of the vertebral column. Because these muscles are postural muscles and need to work throughout the day, it is important to improve both the strength and endurance of these muscles.

Beginning Back Extension Exercise:

  • Lie on the floor with a small pillow under your stomach and small towel roll under your forehead
  • Keep your chin tucked and arms at your side
  • Raise your head and chest up off the floor a few inches or to a comfortable position
  • Hold for 5 seconds
  • Repeat 5 times to start, working up to 10 times as you get stronger
  • Perform this exercise 5 days a week

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Advanced Back Extension Exercise:

  • Lie on the floor with a small pillow under your stomach and your forehead resting on your hands
  • Keep your chin tucked and hands supporting your head
  • Lift your head and chest off the floor to a comfortable position
  • Hold for 5 seconds
  • Repeat 5 time to start, working up to 10 times as you get stronger
  • Perform this exercise 5 days a week

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As with any exercise, STOP if you have any pain or discomfort.  If you already have severe osteoporosis in your spine, you should consult your medical doctor or a physical therapist prior to starting any exercise program.  a safe and proper exercise program is a must for anyone experiencing or wanting to prevent the musculoskeletal challenges of osteoporosis and aging.

Call me today or visit my website for more information about all the ways you can help strengthen your bones. 

 

References used for article:
1. Sinaki, M. (2006). Critical appraisal of physical rehabilitation measures after osteoporotic vertebral fracture. Osteoporosis International,17(11), 1702-1702. doi:10.1007/s00198-006-0139-5
2. Sinaki, M., Itoi, E., Wahner, H., Wollan, P., Gelzcer, R., Mullan, B., . . . Hodgson, S. (2002). Stronger back muscles reduce the incidence of vertebral fractures: A prospective 10 year follow-up of postmenopausal women. Bone,30(6), 836-841. doi:10.1016/s8756-3282(02)00739-1
3. Sinaki, M., Khosla, S., Limburg, P. J., Rogers, J. W., & Murtaugh, P. A. (1993). Muscle strength in Osteoporotic versus normal women. Osteoporosis International,3(1), 8-12. doi:10.1007/bf01623170
4. The Relationship Between Erector Spinae Muscle Thickness and Bone Mineral Density in Postmeonopausal Women: An ultrasonographic Study. http://www.actamedicamediterranea.com/archive/2016/medica-2/relationship-between-erector-spinae-muscle-thickness-and-bone-mineral-den-sity-in-postmenopausal-women-an-ultrasonographic-study/pdf

Susan Brady

Master of Physical Therapy Doctor of Integrative Medicine Certified Integrative Health and Nutritionist

With over 30 years of experience in physical therapy, specializing in treating osteoporosis and musculoskeletal conditions, I have developed my BONES Method™—a holistic approach that naturally supports every aspect of bone health. This comprehensive method is designed to strengthen your bones, enhance overall well-being, and promote a balanced, vibrant life.