Over the course of many years I have spoken to and treated literally thousands of back pain sufferers. Countless numbers of them have been saying to me that they have been doing back pain stretches but with no noticeable positive effects. However it is important to note that the old rule remains true even in this circumstances - when something is done correctly positive results can be expected and visa versa.

There are three basic spinal movements that we should be aware of: Rotation, Flexion (side bending), Extension (forward/backward movement).

Successful healing can only be achieved when ALL THREE movements are reinstated. Therefore it is of the utmost importance to master the vital techniques that will enable you to restore those functions.

Remember that by correcting the problem partially, positive results will never be achieved. The bulk of rehabilitation techniques fail just because they do not address the 3 essential ingredients to recovery; Symmetry, Elasticity and Strength.

Back pain stretches, when done to specific and systematic tutoring, play a fundamental part in all three elements. None of these 3 elements can be achieved unless efficient stretching of the applicable area is conducted on a regular basis. Just as strength is lost when strengthening exercises are not done regularly, so too will you loose symmetry and elasticity.

It is regrettable that too many back pain sufferers do not achieve success because of the fact that they neglect to do exercises and stretches opting for only one of them. It is therefore very important to understand the difference between exercises and stretching.

Basically stretching lengthens the muscle tissue while exercises shorten it. So it must be commonsense to conclude that doing only one of them (stretches or exercises) to the exclusion of the other will result in disappointment.

It is ONLY when the right stretches, are combined with the right exercises, and done in the right manner, sequence and frequency, that recovery can be achieved.