Stretches for Hip Pain

After some time off for a vacation without computer, telephone etc. (which was wonderfully relaxing, by the way), I came back to discover that people are starting to read my blogs, so I’m eager to get back to writing them.

But before I start firing off some new ones I want to respond to a lady who thanked me for my “WONDERFUL” exercise system because it has helped her with lower back problems. I’m flattered that she took the time to let me know.

This same lady brought up another subject that many people probably also experience – pain in her right hip. She wondered if I could suggest an exercise to alleviate that discomfort. She didn’t give her age, but it’s possible she’s experiencing some of the inconvenience of age related aches and pains.

Coincidentally, my right hip is my vulnerable one. I am right handed, which means I have favored my right leg and hip to lead off, to dig in the garden etc., so it’s probably showing some wear and tear.

Instead of suggesting a specific exercise to help the situation I have three things to suggest that I think are much more effective than specific exercises, which I do when it hits me.

l. Before you do your exercises, and also at various times of the day, stand in front of a mirror with legs slightly spread, and check the horizontal line of your shoulders. It’s very possible that one shoulder will be lower than the other, and if so, raise the lower one so that you have bilateral symmetry (both shoulders horizontally aligned). Try to maintain that bilateral symmetry as you exercise, and check it as often as you can during the day to maintain it.

2. Remembering the statement that “any exercise that stretches AWAY FROM a large area or a PAINFUL area will reduce the size or pain of that area” (i.e. large hips, stomachs and even knees that are starting to wear out), and concentrate on the exercises that do that. You need to carry more of your weight in the upper body, and get it out of the hips and off the knees. You do this by lifting your upper body in an expression of pride, with the chin up.

3. If you need extra help achieving bilateral symmetry, find out if there are any classes in Feldenkrais or the Alexander Technique in your area. Both disciplines are good for helping you establish symmetry if you can’t do it on your own. I’m presuming you will also continue doing my exercises for total body fitness and flexibility.