Indiana Spine Group

This spine wellness blog entry will answer a question from a reader.

Question:  “I am looking at exercise equipment, which would you recommend – a treadmill or elliptical machine for back health?”

Answer:  The bottom-line answer is that one piece of equipment is not necessarily better than the other – it all depends on the individual’s needs and preferences. The following highlights considerations for each:

Elliptical Machines:  Elliptical machines provide exercise with little or no impact. This is a very good option for people with knee or back pain. When shopping for an elliptical machine, it is important to purchase one that allows you to adjust the stride length. If the stride length is too long, it can cause you to hyper-extend your lower back. (This is similar to taking to very big steps).

Treadmills: Walking is a great exercise for your back, and no equipment is needed for this! Walking helps increase blood flow, which brings nutrient-rich blood to the spine.  Additionally, it promotes strength and flexibility. HOWEVER, for individuals with spinal stenosis or spondyloslisthesis walking can increase the stress on the spine.

Recumbent Bikes:  These can be an excellent option for individuals with spinal stenosis or spondyloslithesis. When using recumbent bikes, you are sitting and your spine is in a more flexed posture, this decreases stress and pressure on the spine. 

This spine wellness blog entry was answered by Adam Ebbert, PT.  Adam is the physical therapy coordinator with Indiana Spine Group.