Should I use a rowing machine to heal if I have sciatica?

What Exactly is Sciatica?

The sciatic nerve is the cause of sciatica. The sciatic nerve is one of the largest nerves in the body, running down the back of both legs.

When this nerve is injured, this problem causes pain in different parts of the leg, hip, and back. However, up to 90% of people have the ability to recover from sciatica without any form of surgical operation.

Common Risk Factors of Sciatica

The risk factors for the condition of sciatica include: Age is definitely one of the most common factors – middle aged men and women have a larger risk of developing sciatica.
Professional jobs requiring lifting heavy loads for long periods, or being a part of a mostly sedentary lifestyle – people that are physically inactive – create other risks.

Prevention of Sciatica

There are cases where it can be prevented. There are things you can do to decrease the chances of developing it including regular exercise and using good posture when performing day to day activities.

Treatments for Sciatica

There are several things that can be done to ease the pain while suffering from sciatica. These include taking certain OTC drugs, the use of compressions, and certain types of exercise.

For more persistent cases and chronic cases, the condition may require some sort of therapy, a painkiller prescription, and anti-inflammatory injections. In some instances, surgery may be advised.

To Exercise or Not to Exercise?

One of the treatments for sciatica is the gym, but the kinds of exercises and machines used for this purpose are important. It is always recommended to ask for proper guidance.

Is Rowing an Effective Treatment for the Condition?

In general, the rowing machine is great for doing cardio. However, it is not a good exercise for this condition.

Protecting Your Back

Rowing machines are recommended as good injury repairing exercise. Efforts come from the muscle groups in the body below the waist – contrary to the assumption that it uses much of the upper body. If you have great legs and core, you will be a good rower. Notice how your back is not really a part of this!

Rowing may not be an ideal choice of exercise for those who are prone to back pain or when you already have back pain. There is a tendency for these people to subconsciously tighten the back muscles in reaction or anticipation to pain.

First-time rowers may risk back pain after a few sessions. With repetitive acts, this may result in torn muscles. Proper posture is needed to avoid the back pain.

Be sure that your back heals if you experience any of the above. Do some planks, stretches, and crunches to ease the pain.

Rowing with Respect

Rowing is an excellent choice for cardio, fat burning, and muscle forming exercise. The machine should be treated with respect; proper workout technique and posture are needed to avoid any back pain or make the back pain worse.

Rowing right the first time means to be honest in your assessment of your skills in rowing. Do not push yourself too much. Adjust accordingly based on your capability.

Pay attention to your rowing workout. This protects your back from any pain or injury keeping your core muscles engaged and tight. Expect that it will be sore when you first start but don’t give up. Over time, your body will adjust and become stronger and efficient.

Does back pain have a direct relationship with rowing?

Rowing will create an unusual strain on your back. Your chances of injury or lower back pain are sometimes higher than expected.

Technique errors are usually involved in the development of pain, so it is a must be supervised until you get the technique and movement right.

It may only take one rowing session with the wrong technique to damage your back muscles and you could experience sharp pain while rowing.

Should I Avoid Rowing if I Have Sciatica?

If you don’t want to take any chances, avoiding rowing as an exercise if you have sciatica.

People that are prone to back pain should consult a physician, take slow steps, and get professional help and guidance should they decide to use a rowing machine for exercise.