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Are you a CrossFit athlete struggling with persistent back pain? If you’ve been relying on stretching alone to alleviate your discomfort, it’s time for a reality check. While stretching might provide some temporary relief, it’s not the ultimate solution for long-term pain management. Here’s why:
1. Stretching Only Provides Temporary Relief
When you stretch, you might feel immediate relief as your muscles lengthen and tension decreases. However, this relief is often short-lived. Stretching doesn’t address the underlying issues causing your pain. Think of it as putting a band-aid on a deeper problem—it might cover it up for a bit, but it’s not going to heal it. To truly eliminate back pain, you need to dig deeper and tackle the root causes head-on.
2. Strengthen the Areas That Are Weak
One of the most common reasons for back pain in athletes is muscle imbalances. When certain muscles are weak, others have to overcompensate, leading to strain and pain. Simply stretching doesn’t strengthen these weak areas. Instead, you need a targeted strength training program that focuses on building up the muscles that support your spine and core. Strengthening these areas helps create a balanced and stable foundation, reducing the strain on your back.
3. Stretching Alone Doesn’t Improve Motor Control
Stretching can improve your flexibility and mobility, but it doesn’t necessarily enhance your motor control. Motor control is your body’s ability to manage movements efficiently and effectively. Without good motor control, even the most flexible athletes can suffer from pain and injuries. Incorporating exercises that enhance your motor control will ensure that your movements are not only flexible but also stable and controlled.
The Solution: A Comprehensive Approach
To truly address and eliminate back pain, a comprehensive approach is needed. This includes:
Strength Training: Focus on strengthening weak muscles to support your spine.
Mobility Work: Improve flexibility in a way that enhances your overall movement patterns.
Motor Control Exercises: Develop exercises that improve your ability to control and stabilize your movements.
Ready to Overcome Your Back Pain?
If you’re tired of dealing with back pain and want a solution that works, it’s time to move beyond stretching. By incorporating strength training, mobility work, and motor control exercises, you can address the root causes of your pain and get back to doing what you love—pain-free.
CLICK HERE to book a call with us.
Let’s work together to create a personalized plan that will help you overcome your back pain and enhance your performance in your daily WODs. Your back—and your future self—will thank you for it.
Stay strong and keep moving forward!
Dr. Kyle Womack, PT, DPT, SFMA, CF-L2
The MUV Co
MUV/RX
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