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question

Why does my back hurt when I do push-ups?

National Academy of Sports Medicine
National Academy of Sports Medicine
answer

Determine whether you are feeling discomfort or pain. You should never feel pain when performing any exercise. If you continue to feel pain, you should stop the exercise and seek the guidance of a medical professional. Also, reconsider the form that you are using when performing the exercise. Some individuals may excessively arch their lower back when performing exercises and this can cause discomfort in the lower back. To help with this, draw-in your belly button toward your spine and consciously contract the muscles of your abdomen. At the same time, consciously contract your butt muscles. Performing these actions while performing the push-up can help to ensure that you are activating the right muscles.

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Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.