Error message

  • Deprecated function: Return type of DatabaseStatementBase::execute($args = [], $options = []) should either be compatible with PDOStatement::execute(?array $params = null): bool, or the #[\ReturnTypeWillChange] attribute should be used to temporarily suppress the notice in require_once() (line 2244 of /var/www/mo_old/includes/database/database.inc).
  • Deprecated function: Return type of DatabaseStatementEmpty::current() should either be compatible with Iterator::current(): mixed, or the #[\ReturnTypeWillChange] attribute should be used to temporarily suppress the notice in require_once() (line 2346 of /var/www/mo_old/includes/database/database.inc).
  • Deprecated function: Return type of DatabaseStatementEmpty::next() should either be compatible with Iterator::next(): void, or the #[\ReturnTypeWillChange] attribute should be used to temporarily suppress the notice in require_once() (line 2346 of /var/www/mo_old/includes/database/database.inc).
  • Deprecated function: Return type of DatabaseStatementEmpty::key() should either be compatible with Iterator::key(): mixed, or the #[\ReturnTypeWillChange] attribute should be used to temporarily suppress the notice in require_once() (line 2346 of /var/www/mo_old/includes/database/database.inc).
  • Deprecated function: Return type of DatabaseStatementEmpty::valid() should either be compatible with Iterator::valid(): bool, or the #[\ReturnTypeWillChange] attribute should be used to temporarily suppress the notice in require_once() (line 2346 of /var/www/mo_old/includes/database/database.inc).
  • Deprecated function: Return type of DatabaseStatementEmpty::rewind() should either be compatible with Iterator::rewind(): void, or the #[\ReturnTypeWillChange] attribute should be used to temporarily suppress the notice in require_once() (line 2346 of /var/www/mo_old/includes/database/database.inc).

This well known mobility exercise is also known as the ‘Cat Camel exercise' or the ‘Cat Dog exercise’. This low back exercise can reduce low back stiffness. This exercise can be as a warming up or cooling down.

Always consult a healthcare practitioner first, to determine if this low back exercise is good for you.

Special note: Gently mobilize in both directions, using slow and smooth motions. Breathing normally throughout, exhale during the upward movement phase and inhale during the downward movement phase. The emphasis is on the motion rather than “pushing and stretching” at the end ranges. This exercises is intended as a motion exercise, not as a stretching exercise. Ensure that the elbows are not allowed to bend. The Cat Camel is important in understanding the essentials of neutral posture. This exercise focuses on tilting your pelvis forwards and backwards. Try to think about your neutral position. Read more about neutral posture here.  Your neutral pelvic position is between the extremes of pelvic movement. This will help you find your perfect posture.

List of conditions which may benefit from this exercise

A diagnosis or exercise prescription for the following conditions can only be done by a medical doctor or your therapist. This list has merely been given to discuss this with your therapist.

  • Mechanical low back pain, middle back pain, upper back pain, neck pain, pelvic pain.
  • Low back herniated disc, sciatica

General tips for low back exercises

  1. Frequency: Mobility exercises are effective in reducing stiffness and improving mobility. The frequency depends on your goal. Doing more exercises than daily is not always necessary. Please discuss this with your healthcare practitioner.
  2. Combine: Do not only do one exercise a time, but combine them with similar exercises to have a more powerful effect. As an average a total of 3-4 mobility exercises can be advised.
  3. Warming up: This low back exercise can used as a warming up or cooling down.
  4. Low back pain: Pain is a warning signal, therefore never ignore pain. Exercises should be done with care since exercises may worsen your complaint. Do not continue with this exercise if you experience back pain, please ask your healthcare practitioner for more information.
  5. Speed: Do not hurry. This exercise should be done slowly.
  6. Stay alert: Think about doing the exercise rather than performing the exercise automatically.
  7. Wear comfortable clothes while exercising.
  8. Move freely. Always exercise on a clean and flat surface with enough space to move freely.
  9. Low back pain risk factors. Change your life style to prevent or minimize low back complaints. Activities that involve bending or twisting may increase the risk of developing low back pain.

Did you know?

Low back pain is the single leading cause of disability worldwide (Global Burden of Disease 2010).