We are pleased to provide you with some of the exercises that we use at the Norman Marcus Pain Institute. These exercises were developed at Columbia University School of Medicine by Dr. Hans Kraus who was called to the White House and successfully treated President Kennedy’s back pain. Generally, when done properly, most back pain is helped by these exercises.
The 21 exercises are designed to both treat and prevent back pain by increasing strength and flexibility of key postural muscles. These seven basic exercises below are for relaxation and limbering. The last 14 exercises require personal instruction.
If your pain increases while doing any of the exercises--stop. If there are tender knots in your muscles you may need additional treatment or medication.
Before beginning the exercises make sure to review the precautions below for possible signs or symptoms of a serious problem that should prompt you to see your physician. Before you start performing the exercises inform your physician in case he or she does not want you to do these activities.
The following symptoms are possible indicators of serious back problems, including infection, serious disc herniation, or related conditions that should be dealt with immediately.
- Dramatic change in the intensity, quality, or distribution of the pain.
- Redness, swelling, or heat in the painful area
- Fever
- Loss of sensation and/or weakness accompanying the pain
- Recent problems with bladder or bowel function
If you wish to be seen at the Norman Marcus Pain Institute for evaluation and/or treatment contact us at (212) 532-7999 or aya@nmpi.com.
Best wishes,
Norman J. Marcus, M.D., D.A.B.P.M.
Director, Norman Marcus Pain Institute
Clinical Associate Professor of Anesthesiology and Psychiatry
Director, Division of Muscle Pain Research
NYU School of Medicine