Spine Release Stretching
Essential Exercise
Eases spinal tension and stretches back and shoulder muscles
Stretching patients' spines gently with a noninvasive, computer-controlled traction device relieved back pain in a small study, a researcher said here. But why wait until you need a machine? Start stretching your spine on a regular basis and keep it flexible and healthy.
How to perform The Spine Release Stretching:
- Lie back on a mat with feet flat on the floor, knees bent, and arms extended straight out to sides.
- Slowly lower knees to right while gently turning head to the left. Allow knees and side of thighs to touch floor if you can, and keep your right shoulder pressed firmly to the floor. Hold for 10 seconds, then contract abs to pull knees to starting position.
- Repeat on right side, alternating sides for six slow repetitions.
See also: Palm Touch Exercise; Toe Touch
