Can You Do Push-ups with Back Pain?

Pushups can strengthen your back muscles, reducing your risk of back pain.
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Aches and pains, especially in the back, are something that many people deal with on a daily basis. The idea of working out completely pain-free is a bit of a fantasy -- there always seems to be a sore muscle somewhere.

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Performing pushups with back pain is OK as long as you don't have from a serious back injury. The exercise may even help relieve some of the pain you're experiencing. It may be worth a shot to alter your pushup form or try a similar exercise until your back pain subsides.

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Form Adjustment

The standard pushup form places a lot of stress on the back; altering your technique may offer just enough relief to complete your workout. Dropping to your knees or elevating your upper body during pushups will put less pressure on your back.

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Alternative Exercise

If you find it uncomfortable to perform pushups but still want to work your arms and chest, give bench presses a go. This exercise allows you to lie on an exercise bench, offering complete back support, while you press weights vertically to target your triceps and pectoral muscles.

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