<\/p>\n
Actually, what Dr. Yanamadala was experiencing was totally normal. Similar to a automobile\u2019s break pads wear down over time, the act of existing and growing older means our spine will experience wear and tear, which may result in back pain, Dr. Yanamadala says. Sitting (especially sitting with poor posture) for uninterrupted periods of time only intensifies pressure on the joints, which may comprise the spine. So pain resulting from a protracted commute was no surprise.<\/p>\n
The spinal surgeon\u2019s solution was not going to be surgery; it was going to be exercise to alleviate back pain. He knew that to support his back, he needed to strengthen his core\u2014and not only the abs, but all of the core muscles that wrap around the back and front of the torso.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe core is largely our internal back brace,\u201d Dr. Yanamadala says. \u201c[The core muscles] support our spine and stop us from having pain, and permit us to maneuver flexibly.\u201d<\/p>\n
While strong core muscles lend the spine support in its job of holding your head and body upright, the alternative can be true. The less core strength you might have<\/a>, the more the spine has to soak up the pressure and shock of movement, which makes it more likely that those joints gives you issues.<\/p>\n