If it moves, then it is alive. This is the principle behind movement based treatment. This form of therapy has its origin in the East and has been perfected in the West. It is used to promote spiritual, emotional, mental and physical well-being. Motion therapy is a popular medical alternative when dealing with lower back pain.

Motion therapy offers a number of benefits including improving flexibility, release of muscle spasms and enhancement of posture and spasm. The methods used to generate motion are improved regularly with the aim of enhancing freedom and ease response by the body. Improvements have also been made to combine these movements with meditation.

One may choose eastern or western motion techniques based on personal targets and preferences. Qigong and Tai Chi are common eastern techniques that bear similarity. They are slow but comprehensive which makes them popular among the elderly. These cautious motion therapy techniques reward you with relaxation and are effective in restoring optimum body functionality. They also boost your mood by taking the mind away from the pain. This has increased their popularity several folds.

Yoga is also an east based movement therapy option that has psychological and physical components. The emotional aspect of yoga which allows the patient to cope with the distress, decrease stress, regain control of self and be tolerant to pain is what has increased it popularity. The motions focus on the back and can be supported by props to increase flexibility and range. You might require the guidance of a professional to achieve the extreme moves.

Western motion techniques characteristically focus on psychological stability and improvement. Some of the aspects that support healing include body flexibility, better self esteem, motion awareness and improved self image. Habitual motion is transformed into deliberate movement through time, practice and attention. This acts as a distraction to pain since the movements can be applied on all body parts.

The Alexander technique is popular and focuses on correct use of body parts during motion. It aims at creating physical and mental awareness of motion. It also addresses dysfunctional movement patterns and other stress causing motions that would intensify lower back pain. Scientific research has confirmed that it is effective in dealing with lower spinal pain especially during pregnancy and is effective in reducing stress.

Feldenkrais method recognizes that there are alternatives during motion. It is therefore upon and individual to make the right choice. It therefore advocates for re-education of motion. This makes the technique both preventive and therapeutic. It creates awareness on methods that lead to lower back pain. This approach can therefore be used by persons who are yet to experience pain and thus prevent future trouble.

The Trager strategy pays attention to muscle holding and release especially the role played by emotional and mental patterns. This is why this motion therapy technique has been effective in dealing with back pain. A lot of studies are going on regarding these therapies. Considering that they are cost effective and not based on medicines, a lot of benefits will be accrued from their use.