Your lower back is a part of your body that you likely don’t think about much—until it hurts. But it’s actually helping you do all kinds of everyday tasks, like picking up groceries, getting out of the car, and even just sitting at your desk. The lower, or lumbar, spine, is helping you move and stay upright all day.
One of the best ways to avoid pain in the lower back is by focusing on a stronger core. That group of muscles isn’t just about the shape of your midsection – it supports your spine and your balance, so everyday movements don’t become painful.
Your Core and Your Spine
Your core is more than just your abs. It actually includes all the muscles around your abdomen, back, and pelvis, which all work together to stabilize your spine. If those muscles are weak and not engaged, then your lower back has to pick up the slack.
That extra strain is what causes pain and tightness, or even a feeling of fatigue. And when it lasts a long time, it can make your lumbar spine more likely to get injured during a lift or twist. A lot of lower back issues start with a small movement pattern that suddenly becomes painful.
This is where chiropractic care can be helpful. Dr. Thomas Keogh looks at how the spine is moving and whether imbalances may be placing extra stress on the lower back. A Billings chiropractic visit can help identify areas that are not moving well and support better overall alignment.
Small Changes Can Make a Big Difference
Focusing on core strength doesn’t mean you need to start a complicated routine or do intense workouts. Actually, simple movements that you can be consistent with are usually more helpful than pushing your body too hard. You don’t need to force the body but find ways to build stability slowly over time. And when your core is more reliable, everyday movements can feel easier and not cause pain.
You can also focus on posture for better results. When you sit for a long period or slouch, your core muscles are less active. Pay attention to how you sit and try to stand up regularly so that your spine is supported all day.
Supporting a Stronger Foundation
Your spine and muscles work together every day to help your body move without strain, so your routines should support that too. Chiropractic adjustments are a way to restore proper movement throughout the spine, but in between adjustments, you should focus on your core to maximize the benefits.
Dr. Keogh encourages practice members to think of spinal health like you do other health – something built through small habits each day. Even a few minutes of movement can help bring about better spinal health and mobility.
The team at Bare Chiropractic is here to help you protect your lower back. Schedule your first appointment today, and we’ll come up with the right plan for you.
Sources
Ribaudo, A. “A Guide to Your Core Muscles, from a PT.” Hospital for Special Surgery, 2024 Feb 11. https://www.hss.edu/health-library/move-better/what-are-core-muscles
“Lumbar/Core Strength and Stability Exercises.” Princeton University Athletic Medicine, University Health Services. https://www.vertibono.com/pdfs/lumbar.pdf
