Asian Squats: Is it good for lower back pain?

I’ve come across several articles on the internet that say Asian Squat can improve back pain. I’d like to share my opinions on this topic based on my experience and knowledge as a movement teacher and Feldenkrais practitioner.

There are many origins of back pain, so you cannot generalize back pain as one. Back pain could be related to muscle strain, ligament sprain, disc degeneration, joint degeneration, arthritis, nerve tissue injury, nerve sensitization, stress, anxiety, fear, lack of movement, etc. Thus, it’s hard to say Asian Squat can improve back pain without being more specific.

It is true that many experience improved back pain as a result of incorporating Asian Squat into their daily activities. My guess is that their experience is related to increased movement. By adapting Asian Squat, you are mobilizing many body parts that you haven’t mobilized before. Getting in and out of Asian Squat mobilizes your ankles, knees, hips, and spine a lot more than getting in and out of a couch. You are “waking up” all those parts that have not been used before.

I believe the most significant benefit of Asian Squat is all movements required to get in and out of Asian Squat. As a result of more movement, you’ll improve blood circulation, which delivers oxygen and nutrients to all of your body system. I can see this can have a positive impact on heath of back, and this may be one of the reasons why some people experience improved back pain from doing Asian Squat.

I feel many believe Asian Squat position provides benefits, but I believe increased mobilization required to get in/out of Asian Squat provides more benefits, which many people don’t discuss. So, the bottom line is movement matters; movement is life; let’s move more!

Happy Squatting! Happy Mindful Movement!