Question
Thank you for the quick response.  Do you have recommendations for exercises to stretch and strengthen the spine safely?
Thanks Again!
Dan
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Followup To

Question -
I have heard conflicting reports regarding the safety of the wrestlers bridge.  I'm not talking about the bridging on the top of the head (that I have been told may compress the discs) but the bridging that goes farther so that the nose touches the ground as you stretch your abdomen as high as possible. What is your opinion of the safety of this exercise?
Thanks!
Dan

Answer -
Dan:

Thanks for writing!

From looking at the postion of the spine in that manuever, I would say it is very hard on the spine. One would have to be totally in top shape physically from other exercises to survive it.

Does this answer your question?

Dr. Rozeboom

Answer
Dan:

Thanks for writing!

Exercises to strengthen the spine are generally referred to as "Core" exercises. There are several versions out there. Look around and see what is good for you.

One major factor in the strength of the spine is the person's diet. One cannot build strong ligaments, cartilage, nerves and bones on The Great American Diet. It is deficient in essential fatty acids and good fats, minerals, Vit. C, just to name a few factors. Water intake is also essential.

The Great American Diet will give 90% of the people indigestion and B complex deficiency also. That further reduces the essential nutrients for a strong back.

There is a great book available by Dr. Batmanhelidg on the back and joints. It contains stretching and positioning exercises which are really good and will position your spine in its strongest configuration. Get a copy of that for starters.

Dr. Rozeboom