Stretches for Back Pain Relief

This tutorial teaches the basic yoga stretches to relieve tightness, tense shoulders due to bad posture, slouching or sitting for long periods of time. This yoga routine is very safe for people with lower back issues and can help alleviate pain when done regularly.

Keep the following in mind when starting a yoga stretching routine as part of a program of back exercises:
• Wear comfortable clothes that will not bind.
• Stretching should be pain free; do not force the body into difficult positions
• Move into position slowly and avoid bouncing, which may actually tear muscles.
• Stretch on a clean, flat surface that is large enough to freely move
• Hold stretches long enough (20-30 seconds) to allow muscles or joints to become loose.
• Repeat the stretch, generally 5-10 times

If you already have low back pain or neck pain, it is best to check with a physician or physical therapist to discuss whether the following neck, shoulder, and lower back pain yoga exercises should be done.