What sports should you avoid with lower back pain?

Answered by James Kissner

When it comes to dealing with lower back pain, it’s important to be mindful of the activities and sports you engage in. High-impact activities that involve running, jumping, and putting stress on your joints can potentially worsen your back pain symptoms. It’s crucial to avoid these activities until your pain subsides.

One sport to be cautious of is running. The repetitive impact of running can place a significant amount of stress on your lower back. If you’re experiencing back pain, it would be wise to take a break from running until your symptoms improve. Instead, consider low-impact exercises such as walking or swimming, which can provide cardiovascular benefits without straining your back.

Jumping activities, such as jumping rope or trampoline exercises, should also be avoided if you have lower back pain. These activities can put excessive strain on your spine, exacerbating your pain. It’s best to steer clear of them until your back feels better.

Step aerobics is another activity that should be approached with caution if you’re dealing with lower back pain. The repetitive stepping and impact on your joints can cause discomfort and potentially worsen your symptoms. It’s advisable to avoid step aerobics until your back pain improves.

Basketball is a high-impact sport that involves running, jumping, and quick movements. These actions can place a significant amount of stress on your lower back, potentially aggravating your pain. It’s best to refrain from playing basketball until your back feels better. However, if you’re determined to stay active, consider engaging in low-impact sports such as swimming or cycling.

In general, any activity that puts stress on your joints should be avoided if you have lower back pain. This includes high-impact exercises like kickboxing, high-intensity interval training (HIIT), and activities that involve rapid twisting or bending motions. These movements can strain your back and worsen your symptoms.

It’s crucial to listen to your body and give it the rest it needs to heal. If you’re unsure about which activities to avoid, consult with a healthcare professional or a physical therapist who can provide personalized advice based on your specific condition.

Remember, everyone’s experience with lower back pain is different, so what may work for one person may not work for another. It’s essential to find the right balance between staying active and giving your body the time and care it needs to recover.