Do This Simple Seated Back Stretch for Parkinson’s

I recently received another great request from my readers: “Kimberly, would you do a video of a simple, quick stretch for my upper back that I can do at my desk?”

Yes, here you go! This one is quick, easy, and feels really good. Best of all, you don’t have to get on the floor.

Doing this exercise seated actually helps you do it correctly. When you try to stretch out your tight upper back caused by Parkinson’s and life in general, you’ll often overextend your lower back. If the thoracic spine is tight when you arch backward to stretch, you wind up only extending in the lower lumbar region.

Watch this video to learn how to do this simple seated back stretch for Parkinson’s:

How to do this stretch:

• Sit tall in a chair facing a desk or table. A slick seated chair works best, or if your desk chair is on wheels that could help too as long as you are safe.
• Put your elbows on the table shoulder-width apart.

• Take a breath in, and as you exhale, lift your heart up while sliding back your hips or sliding forward with your elbows. Push down slightly with your elbows.

• Keep your back straight and feel your shoulder blades gliding together.
• Keep your eye gaze down, but try not to move your head forward.
• Hold for a few seconds and repeat a few more times.

This is a great stretch to do several times a day. It’s easy and can really help mobilize your upper back and relieve pain from your lower back.

💜 Coach Kimberly