Lovemaking Positions that are Comfortable with Back Pain
For most couples,
lovemaking is an important part of the relationship. When something gets in the
way of a rich and vibrant intimate life – relationship issues or a health
condition, for example – the partnership can suffer. One common chronic
condition that affects some couples in the bedroom is lower back pain. When one
partner is in pain, she may not be in the mood; making matters worse, the
lovemaking act itself can exacerbate pain, making it something that many
sufferers avoid often or altogether. According to Statistics Canada, 73% of
women with back pain report a significant reduction in sensual activity. What
can a man do for his partner – and the relationship – in this situation? For
his lady’s comfort, the relationship’s well-being and his own male organ health, men with partners
in pain can learn what lovemaking positions will put their lovers at ease and restore
enjoyment to this wonderful bonding activity.
The
Study
Researchers at the
University of Waterloo conducted a study in which they analyzed muscle loading
and spinal movement in 10 couples who were engaged in sensual activity. These
couples did the deed in five common positions – two variations of doggy-style,
two variations of missionary and, finally, spooning.
The researchers also
distinguished between two broad types of lower back pain: flexion-intolerant
(made worse when the person bends forward) and extension-intolerant
(exacerbated by arching the back). Using the data collected from the muscle
loading and spinal movement detections, they determined which positions were
likely best and worst for both types of pain.
Best
Positions for Flexion-Intolerant Women
Women whose pain is worse
when bending forward will likely enjoy the following positions:
-
Spooning: This
intimate position involves both partners lying on their sides, usually with
knees bent to some degree, with the woman’s back pressed up against the man’s
chest and stomach.
-
Hand-supported doggy-style: Here,
the woman is on all fours, and the man enters from behind. Her back is fairly
neutral, or slightly arched. The elbow-supported variation of this position is
less ideal; women with flexion-intolerant pain will probably be most
comfortable supporting themselves with their hands instead.
Worst
Positions for Flexion-Intolerant Women
Woman with this type of
back pain are not likely to be comfortable in missionary positions.
Best
Positions for Extension-Intolerant Women
Women whose pain is
exacerbated by arching their backs may be most comfortable in the following
positions:
-
Missionary (standard): Classic
missionary, with the woman lying flat on her back and the man on top,
discourages back extension.
-
Missionary variation: Similar
to standard missionary, the woman lies on her back, but she can flex her hips
and knees for a different sensation. Her lower back will be neutral or slightly
flexed in this position.
Worst
Positions for Extension-Intolerant Woman
-
Doggy-style: Variations
of doggy-style all promote spinal extension.
-
Spooning: A
woman may be prone to arching her back in this position.
More
Hope to Come
The researchers who
conducted this study plan to do more research within this field, considering
additional types of pain as well as more positions. This means couples whose
lovemaking lives have been hindered by chronic pain have a lot to look forward
to. Of course, couples can engage in private, non-scientific experimentation in
the meantime. Always check in with a partner about comfort levels and
preferences.
Along with trying out
scientifically-backed lovemaking positions with his partner in pain, a man can
improve his romantic life by taking good care of his pleasure-maker. A male organ health cream (health
professionals recommend Man1 Man Oil), loaded with vital
nutrients, can help support circulatory, nerve and skin health. Shea butter and
vitamin E leave the skin smooth, elastic and hydrated. Vitamin A is another key
ingredient; it’s antibacterial properties help keep manhood odors at bay,
making the member far more appealing to one’s partner.