It is estimated that over 70% of UK residents aged 60 and over struggle with back pain, based on the recent study of Wong, Karppinen, and Samartzis. For anyone pursuing a career in physical training and fitness, coming across an elderly client is very likely. So it’s important to be aware of what you can do to help to alleviate their back pain. In that vein, what sort of information and guidance can help?
Back Pain and the Elderly
A regular workout routine later in life should be a priority; however, the need for fitness in the elderly is often overlooked with the many transitions happening in that stage of their lives. Back pain is prevalent in the elderly population as they experience loss in muscle mass and skeletal muscle. The back pain may also be caused by other factors like illness or injury recovery. A fitness instructor must be able to understand the physical limitations of elderly clients. From there, devise a workout routine that specifically targets areas to help address back pain. So that they will not fall into the common gym mistakes that people usually make in the pursuit of fitness and pain relief. As someone aiming to be a fitness instructor, you must always make it a point to find out more about the needs of your client to be truly helpful.
Proper Stretches Exercises
Prior to any physical activity, proper stretching is necessary. In the case of the elderly, proper stretching helps to increase their range of motion, according to the study conducted by the NHS. Proper stretching is the key to opening up the doors to other exercise routines. As a fitness instructor, it is important to help your elderly client understand that proper stretching can also lessen the risk of injury and simultaneously provides relief for any lingering back pain. Good examples of stretch exercises which target back pain are sideways-bends and knee-to-chest stretches. They diffuse the tension that’s presently in the lower back and aim to restore flexibility without extensive movement. It is ideal for first-time clients who have no history of working out. It is also important to emphasise the need to take it slow so they do not risk further pain.
Low-Impact Training
Beyond helping elderly clients with proper stretches, it will be your task to lead them toward exercise routines that provide maximum pain relief and overall physical betterment. People over the age of 60 need low-impact yet functional training. Their joints are no longer at their peak strength to withstand truly strenuous physical activities. Good examples of low-impact training often involve walking in place and leg raises. Exercise routines that offer movement to help back pain are yoga and swimming. If they are not routines that are available due to location limitations, minor weight training can help target the back. Repetitive movements that do not endanger joints are ideal for older clients seeking back pain relief.
Back pain is a discomfort that no one should be forced to live with. Proper guidance and physical fitness can help elders enjoy their retirement and everyday life. As a fitness instructor, it is your job to ensure that they have a better chance of attaining the much-needed relief that they deserve.
Guest Post by Jane Sandwood