Cracking your lower back can be a great way to realign your vertebrae, loosen tight muscles, and reduce pressure. Properly cracking your lower back can be done fairly easily in five simple steps. However, it’s important to approach this practice carefully to avoid injury, so you can continue to enjoy the benefits.
Steps for Cracking the Lower Back
Step 1: Warm Up
Prior to attempting to crack your lower back, it’s important to do some gentle warm-up exercises to prepare your body. Start by self-massaging your lower back and glutes before doing a few dynamic movements like lying on your back and doing some simple twists and stretches.
Step 2: Prepare Your Body
Once you’ve warmed up your body, it’s time to prepare it for cracking. Get on your hands and knees and begin to slowly arch your back, then try to slowly raise your arms in the air. This will help increase the tension in the muscles in your lower back. Do this several times before attempting to crack it.
Step 3: Create Tension
To successfully crack your lower back, you’ll need to create tension in the area. Start by positioning yourself on your hands and knees, then slowly push down and back with your hands and arms. You should feel the tension in the muscles of your lower back as you do this. Make sure you keep your breathing slow and steady as you increase the tension in your lower back.
Step 4: Slowly Crack your Back
Once the tension is enough, you can start to crack your lower back. Push the ground with your hands and arms while arching your back. You should feel your vertebrae begin to move and may hear a small “pop” as your vertebrae realigns. Make sure to move slowly and be cautious not to over-crack the area, as this can cause injury.
Step 5: Take It Easy Afterwards
After cracking your lower back, it’s important to rest and let your body recover. Feel free to stretch the area and apply pressure to the area to further relieve any remaining tension. Also, if any part of the process was uncomfortable or painful stop and take a break.
People Also Ask
How long should I hold the position for?
It depends on the tension in your lower back, but aim to hold it for 30-90 seconds before attempting to crack it.
What sort of injury can cracking your back cause?
Incorrectly attempting to crack your back may cause joint and cartilage damage, as well as muscle spasms and inflammation.
What are some alternative treatments for lower back discomfort?
There are a number of alternative treatments to relieve lower back discomfort, such as foam rolling, acupuncture, massage, and chiropractic care.
Should I do back cracking alone or with someone else?
It is generally recommended to have someone else help you crack your lower back, as they can ensure that you’re not over-cracking the area and causing injury.
Can I use a massage ball instead of cracking my back?
Using a massage ball can help relieve tension in your lower back and may be an alternative for those who are uncomfortable with cracking their back.
Final Words
Cracking your lower back is a great way to realign your vertebrae, loosen tight muscles, and reduce pressure. In order to avoid injury and get the most out of your cracking session, approach the practice carefully and pay attention to how your body feels. If done correctly, it can be a great way to reduce any lower back discomfort and help keep you comfortable and pain-free.