Lower Back Pain Exercises and Techniques

by Judith

My husband suffers from lower back pain from years as a carpenter. He also recently has had problem with an irregular heartbeat. He says that when I massage the bottom parts of his feet he feels it relaxes areas in his back and calms his heart. Is there a more specific massage technique or area that would help more?

Matthew's reply: Hi Judith, I would suggest that your husband starts doing some of the exercises and techniques in the Back-Neck section of this site, if he hasn't already. These are all simple exercises that many people report to be very effective for all kinds of back pain, including lower back pain.

My initial suggestions would be the Lumbar Rub, Back Twist and Back Arch, and possibly the exercises listed under Squat, Sit and Stretch Your Back. Pick a couple that best match the problem and start with those - slowly and gently! If he is in a lot of discomfort then just start with the Lumbar Rub and exercises 4 and 5 in Squat, Sit and Stretch Your Back.

It's great that you are able to help him - and I would certainly continue rubbing his feet - however if he learns some techniques too, he can obviously help himself when you're not there. All the best. If you or he have questions about any of the exercises on the site please let me know.