The GMW Concealed Carry Gun Pack. Now available now on Amazon.com. BUY NOW
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Carrying firearms should not have to be a burden and concealed carry back pain can be avoided. Unfortunately, a lot of people do experience concealed carry back pain after carrying for a long time. Dealing with back pain while carrying weapons can be challenging. It can be difficult to draw or fire a pistol if you have an aching back. Some people have resigned themselves to feeling uncomfortable when concealed carrying but with the right approach and the right gear, this doesn’t have to be the case. If you are experiencing back pain when carrying a firearm, you’ve come to the right place. Read on and find out how to reduce concealed carry back pain.
WHAT CAUSES CONCEALED CARRY BACK PAIN?
There are many factors associated with concealed carry back pain. If your work entails sitting for a long period of time this could already be contributing to pain in your back. Carrying a weapon on your hip or shoulder or even carrying one in your pocket will only add extra weight and pressure for you to deal with. Whether big or small, guns are heavy. Balancing this weight is important. Some people try to even out the weight of their gun on one hip by carrying spare magazines on their other hip. If you try this just make sure these weights balance out.
Most people carry their firearms on their belt. To keep your belt from drooping down, you’ll need to keep it tight. But while this may help keep your belt from sagging, there is a trade-off as the tightness of the belt will exert its own pressure on your body. If you carry your weapon at a 4 or 5 o‘clock position, you’ll notice your belt digging in at the 10 or 11 o’clock position. Take a look at the front of your left hip and you’ll likely see a mark that the pressure of your belt has left on your skin. When thinking about how to reduce concealed carry back pain, you need to keep in mind that there are holsters on the market that when worn in one position for a long amount of time can render nerves tender and painful and negatively impact that area. This buildup of pressure can take days or even weeks to notice but be aware of this problem and be sure to find ways to tackle this issue before the pain becomes unbearable and you are unable to effectively carry your weapon.
SMALL OF THE BACK CARRY AND BACK PAIN
One method of carrying firearms that can cause concealed carry back pain is the small of the back carry. Gun owners are divided in opinion when it comes to this concealed carry method. Do some research about this style of carry before using it repeatedly. Small of the back carry danger is real, so always make sure you are taking care of your back and body when carrying.
Gun Draw
In a small of the back carry, the gun is easily accessible to either of your hands, which is a plus, but the carry is known to require more movement when drawing than other common carry styles due to the necessity of reaching fully behind your back. In the appendix and cross-draw carries you’ll notice your weapon sitting at a nice, natural position for drawing that requires much less movement.
Through practice you will definitely be able to perfect a small of the back carry draw but this carry suffers from another problem–the interaction between you and your weapon while seated. If you’re thinking about the most comfortable concealed carry position, this really isn’t it. If you carry in this manner it will be more difficult to sit. Think about it. If you’re sitting with a full-sized pistol in an IWB holster at the small of the back you’re literally sitting on top of your gun. Believe us, this is not a comfortable situation to be in, especially if the slide gets hot or cold due to the weather.
Injuries Associated with Small of the Back Carry
Aside from its awkward draw, another small of the back concealed carry danger you should consider is the risk of injury. Having extra weight on the back of your belt line is not the safest thing. That extra weight might throw you off balance and if you fall and land on your gun it could really hurt. There will be much less risk falling down while carrying on your hip. In the small of the back carry your gun sits more or less over the lumbar region of your spine and your pelvis. These areas, along with your hips and kneecaps, are vital for movement. The lumbar region of your spine serves as the foundation of your body. If something happens to your lumbar, you’ll start to feel it in other areas as well. While we haven’t seen any exact studies to back this up, there are stories out there of gun carriers becoming disabled after falling onto their backs while using a small of the back carry.
Overcoming the Risks
The good news is that there are ways you can overcome small of the back carry danger. If you really prefer the small of the back carry, there are precautions you can take to help overcome this style’s disadvantages. Here are some tips for making a small of the back carry less risky:
Wear an IWB Holster in the Small of the Back Position
This is perhaps the most common method for preventing risks associated with a small of the back carry. You should always carry with a holster and this style of holster is probably your best bet with a small of the back carry. The best practice is to position the holster opposite your dominant hand. This will put the grip on your dominant side. Try doing a little placement and cant adjustment to make your draw less awkward. You definitely don’t want to be carrying your weapon vertically right in the center of your back.
Orient Your Grip to Your Strong Side
Change the orientation of your grip such that it faces the strong side. This can help. While it may be easier to sit or drive with your gun at other orientations keep in mind that sitting, especially sitting while carrying, can lead to back pain which is what we are trying to avoid. Strong side is a classic, well-loved style of carry that you should definitely try.
Consider Other Carry Methods
Considering the disadvantages in comfort and draw ability and the potential for injury, we don’t really recommend the small of the back carry for concealed carrying. Maybe consider using it for carrying your backup gun, but be warned that there are probably other, better options out there.
WHAT TO DO WITH CONCEALED CARRY BACK PAIN
After concealed carrying for several years, gun owners can develop a permanent sore from carrying their weapon, but concealed carry back pain does not have to be a lifelong problem. We discussed small of the back carry pain but be aware that other types of carrying can lead to pain as well. For example, appendix carry back pain is also something concealed carriers talk about. If you are wondering how to reduce concealed carry back pain, here are some steps you can take to lessen the problem.
Carry a Smaller Gun
Weight is probably the main culprit behind concealed carry back pain and guns are not light. Your body will notice the extra strain. Police officers are very prone to back pain because of how often they carry firearms. Law enforcers are also prone to what is known as duty belt pain and ‘policeman’s heel’, a slang term for plantar fasciitis. Duty belt pain is of course caused by the weight of all the gear that police officers carry at their waists.
So how do you remedy this situation? The easiest way is to simply get a lighter gun. Try relegating your full-sized pistol to backup duty and see if your back pain is alleviated. You could also consider just selling or trading your big gun for a lighter model. The lighter the gun you carry, the less strain and back pain you will have. Revolvers are great concealed carry guns, but their all-steel construction makes them heavy in terms of ounces per-round. To alleviate back pain you might try opting for a polymer framed gun such as a Glock or Smith & Wesson M&P. Back pain is real and will affect your quality of life. Small of the back carry pain is real. Appendix carry pain is real. Unbalanced carry pain is real. Always be aware of your body and the strain you are putting on it.
Choose a Better Holster
IWB carry back pain is sometimes caused by an inadequate holster. When carrying in this style you should try to avoid the holster pressing into your side as much as you can. If your holster presses into the side of your hips, it can become extremely painful. Pressing usually occurs because your holster does not conform well with the shape of your hip or lacks proper cushioning. For more comfort, consider getting a new holster or try to reposition your holster until you find the most comfortable concealed carry position.
So how do you find the right holster for concealed carry? Lots of factors go into this. Generally, however, you’ll want to look at the following factors when choosing a holster:
Fit – You want your holster to fit just right—not too loose, not too tight. Also always choose a holster which is the perfect fit for your weapon.
Retention – Your firearm should be effectively retained until drawn. If you are moving around or running, you should not be worried about losing your firearm. Retention is a holster’s main responsibility.
Access – When you need your handgun, you’ll need to be able to access and draw it with ease. You don’t want to end up dead because of a slow draw. An inaccessible handgun could defeat the purpose of carrying altogether.
Stability – Your holster should stay securely in place. It should never shift position because you will need it in position when it is time to draw.
Low Profile – When thinking about how to reduce concealed carry back pain consider a low profile holster. You don’t want a big, bulky monster of a gun holster.. A holster that is too bulky will pull your pants down or lean too far away from your body, and this could cause further strain on your back.
Comfort –. What’s the point of wearing a holster if you will not be comfortable carrying? Some gun owners say that carrying a gun should be comforting but not necessarily comfortable. But let’s be real here, if your holster isn’t comfortable it is probably going to cause you back pain. Also, if your holster isn’t comfortable, you might not feel like carrying it. Don’t fall into that trap.
Consider using extra support when carrying. Extra support can help spread the weight of your weapon over a larger area and alleviate its strain. An extra support could be something like Perry Suspenders. These suspenders can attach to your belt and help lighten the weight on your hips. This is a tactic that has been used by the military.
Get a Better Gun Belt
If your gun belt is not made of durable material, chances are you will have to tighten it beyond what’s comfortable. A weak gun belt could be a factor in your holster digging into your hip and this could lead to nasty hip pointers. A too-tight belt can lead to nerve or muscle damage. Don’t underestimate the effect a proper gun belt can have on your ability to effectively carry a firearm. Belts are often the most neglected pieces of carry gear.
A gun belt is designed for an outside the waistband (OWB) concealed carry. The belt’s job is to hold the holster securely against your body while providing comfort and aiding in concealment. Gun belts are thicker than regular belts and are designed to withstand the wear and tear of daily concealed carry use and abuse. A strong gun belt is a must. Make sure to choose a gun belt that works in tandem with your holster to ensure the most comfortable concealed carry possible.
Exercise Your Lower Back and Core
Many people start to experience back pain as they grow older. As you age muscles can become brittle and you’ll need to start working them to maintain their mass and strength. When thinking about how to reduce concealed carry back pain, you’ll soon come to realize that exercising and strengthening your back muscles is one of the easiest ways to get rid of the pain. Your lower and mid back muscles as well as your core provide support to your spine and upper body. Start working on these muscle groups and the pain might just melt away.
Maintaining a strong, balanced core is one of the best ways to ensure proper spine health and peak performance. Core muscles affect your lower as well as your upper body. Your core’s connections to your legs have an impact on the way you stand, squat, and sit. A strong core can be beneficial for bone health and will make you less susceptible to injuries while concealed carrying.
Try to Lose Weight
Sometimes concealed carry back pain has little to do with concealed carrying. Packing on too many pounds can lead to a variety of diseases in addition to back pain. Exercising your lower back and core could be a great way to start your weight loss journey while also alleviating concealed carry back pain.
Consult Your Doctor About Concealed Carry Back Pain
If you find yourself experiencing concealed carry back pain regularly, you might want to consider having a talk with your doctor. While you may think concealed carrying is the reason for your pain, the real cause could turn out to be something else entirely. To be safe, it’s best to consult a health care professional when dealing with chronic pain.
Keep in mind that back pain is not only about comfort. If you’re suffering from back pain your draw could suffer as well. Your range of movement will likely be negatively impacted by any back problems and this could slow you down. If range of movement becomes an issue, try to carry a light handgun on your dominant side in a low holster. This should make drawing a bit easier. Remember that speed and access to your weapon will be crucial in a moment of crisis. Don’t let your back pain hinder your self-defense.
Loosen Your Belt to Minimize Pain
Belts can definitely aggravate the problem. If you use an IWB holster, loosen your belt. It’s recommended that you wear a belt that is at least an inch larger than your waist and hips. If your normal size is 30 wear try to tighten your belt as if you had a 31” or 32” waist. Remember that pressure and weight are forces working on your body at all times and that your belt plays a crucial role in this. Especially when there’s a firearm hanging off of it.
Switch Carry Location
Your winter clothes are probably a lot different than your summer duds. Many concealed carriers, due to concealment issues, carry smaller weapons in the summer and bigger weapons in the winter when bulky clothing can help conceal larger calibers. But you don’t have to wait for the season to change to switch up your carry. By becoming skilled at carrying in different positions, you’ll have more flexibility in your clothing choices and you’ll also be able to move the weight of your weapon around from time to time so that the same muscles aren’t always being overworked. One recommended position to work into your repertoire is a good old 3 o’clock carry. This carry can help to ease any pressure on your lower back.
Build a Strong Back
The simplest way to avoid concealed carry back pain is to build up your back muscles, especially the muscles in your lower back. Shoulder holsters will put pressure on your chest, upper back, shoulders, neck, and traps. If you’re a shoulder carrier, keep these areas in mind and make sure they are strong and healthy. Remember, your muscles work as a team, so don’t focus on only one area at the expense of the others.
Regular exercise has many benefits. Exercise not only builds muscles, but stretches them out, which is important for muscle health. Here are some exercise tips that can help alleviate IWB carry back pain:
Lower Stomach Strengthening
Having a strong lower stomach is important. This muscle group works in partnership with the lower back. If the lower tummy muscles are weak, they can cause the lower back to tighten and this could result in lower back pain.
For this exercise, lie on your back with knees bent and feet flat on the floor. Breathe in and as you breathe out bring one knee in towards your chest. As you breathe in return your feet to the floor. Try to do this 6-8 times for each leg.
Deep Abdominal Strengthening
A strong transverse abdominus can help alleviate concealed carry back pain. This muscle provides support for your lower back but in most people it is relatively weak.
To perform this exercise, lie on your back with a small cushion under your head and bend your knees. Make sure that your feet are hip distance apart and set firmly on the floor. Keep your upper body relaxed and chin gently tucked in. Take a deep breath and draw your belly towards your spine as you breathe out. Hold for 5 to 10 seconds.
Ensure a Balanced Concealed Carry
Finding balance is one of the best ways to reduce concealed carry back pain. Think about what you’re carrying. If you carry an M&P 45 on your left side try to balance that out with 2 spare magazines on your right side. Just remember to make sure that these weights are equal.
Postural imbalance can be another reason for concealed carry back pain. Consider carrying a small, lightweight pocket gun which will not have too much of an effect on your posture. You can also try wearing a well-balanced shoulder holster and balancing out the weight of the weapon by carrying spare magazines on your non-weapon side. Balance balance balance!
It’s gonna be hard to continually carry if you have a bad back. These tips on how to reduce concealed carry back pain will help lessen the load and alleviate the pain. Try them out and tell us what works for you in the comments!
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How to Reduce Concealed Carry Back Pain
The GMW Concealed Carry Gun Pack. Now available now on Amazon.com.
BUY NOW
BUY NOW
Carrying firearms should not have to be a burden and concealed carry back pain can be avoided. Unfortunately, a lot of people do experience concealed carry back pain after carrying for a long time. Dealing with back pain while carrying weapons can be challenging. It can be difficult to draw or fire a pistol if you have an aching back. Some people have resigned themselves to feeling uncomfortable when concealed carrying but with the right approach and the right gear, this doesn’t have to be the case. If you are experiencing back pain when carrying a firearm, you’ve come to the right place. Read on and find out how to reduce concealed carry back pain.
WHAT CAUSES CONCEALED CARRY BACK PAIN?
There are many factors associated with concealed carry back pain. If your work entails sitting for a long period of time this could already be contributing to pain in your back. Carrying a weapon on your hip or shoulder or even carrying one in your pocket will only add extra weight and pressure for you to deal with. Whether big or small, guns are heavy. Balancing this weight is important. Some people try to even out the weight of their gun on one hip by carrying spare magazines on their other hip. If you try this just make sure these weights balance out.
Most people carry their firearms on their belt. To keep your belt from drooping down, you’ll need to keep it tight. But while this may help keep your belt from sagging, there is a trade-off as the tightness of the belt will exert its own pressure on your body. If you carry your weapon at a 4 or 5 o‘clock position, you’ll notice your belt digging in at the 10 or 11 o’clock position. Take a look at the front of your left hip and you’ll likely see a mark that the pressure of your belt has left on your skin. When thinking about how to reduce concealed carry back pain, you need to keep in mind that there are holsters on the market that when worn in one position for a long amount of time can render nerves tender and painful and negatively impact that area. This buildup of pressure can take days or even weeks to notice but be aware of this problem and be sure to find ways to tackle this issue before the pain becomes unbearable and you are unable to effectively carry your weapon.
SMALL OF THE BACK CARRY AND BACK PAIN
One method of carrying firearms that can cause concealed carry back pain is the small of the back carry. Gun owners are divided in opinion when it comes to this concealed carry method. Do some research about this style of carry before using it repeatedly. Small of the back carry danger is real, so always make sure you are taking care of your back and body when carrying.
Gun Draw
In a small of the back carry, the gun is easily accessible to either of your hands, which is a plus, but the carry is known to require more movement when drawing than other common carry styles due to the necessity of reaching fully behind your back. In the appendix and cross-draw carries you’ll notice your weapon sitting at a nice, natural position for drawing that requires much less movement.
Through practice you will definitely be able to perfect a small of the back carry draw but this carry suffers from another problem–the interaction between you and your weapon while seated. If you’re thinking about the most comfortable concealed carry position, this really isn’t it. If you carry in this manner it will be more difficult to sit. Think about it. If you’re sitting with a full-sized pistol in an IWB holster at the small of the back you’re literally sitting on top of your gun. Believe us, this is not a comfortable situation to be in, especially if the slide gets hot or cold due to the weather.
Injuries Associated with Small of the Back Carry
Aside from its awkward draw, another small of the back concealed carry danger you should consider is the risk of injury. Having extra weight on the back of your belt line is not the safest thing. That extra weight might throw you off balance and if you fall and land on your gun it could really hurt. There will be much less risk falling down while carrying on your hip. In the small of the back carry your gun sits more or less over the lumbar region of your spine and your pelvis. These areas, along with your hips and kneecaps, are vital for movement. The lumbar region of your spine serves as the foundation of your body. If something happens to your lumbar, you’ll start to feel it in other areas as well. While we haven’t seen any exact studies to back this up, there are stories out there of gun carriers becoming disabled after falling onto their backs while using a small of the back carry.
Overcoming the Risks
The good news is that there are ways you can overcome small of the back carry danger. If you really prefer the small of the back carry, there are precautions you can take to help overcome this style’s disadvantages. Here are some tips for making a small of the back carry less risky:
Wear an IWB Holster in the Small of the Back Position
This is perhaps the most common method for preventing risks associated with a small of the back carry. You should always carry with a holster and this style of holster is probably your best bet with a small of the back carry. The best practice is to position the holster opposite your dominant hand. This will put the grip on your dominant side. Try doing a little placement and cant adjustment to make your draw less awkward. You definitely don’t want to be carrying your weapon vertically right in the center of your back.
Orient Your Grip to Your Strong Side
Change the orientation of your grip such that it faces the strong side. This can help. While it may be easier to sit or drive with your gun at other orientations keep in mind that sitting, especially sitting while carrying, can lead to back pain which is what we are trying to avoid. Strong side is a classic, well-loved style of carry that you should definitely try.
Consider Other Carry Methods
Considering the disadvantages in comfort and draw ability and the potential for injury, we don’t really recommend the small of the back carry for concealed carrying. Maybe consider using it for carrying your backup gun, but be warned that there are probably other, better options out there.
WHAT TO DO WITH CONCEALED CARRY BACK PAIN
After concealed carrying for several years, gun owners can develop a permanent sore from carrying their weapon, but concealed carry back pain does not have to be a lifelong problem. We discussed small of the back carry pain but be aware that other types of carrying can lead to pain as well. For example, appendix carry back pain is also something concealed carriers talk about. If you are wondering how to reduce concealed carry back pain, here are some steps you can take to lessen the problem.
Carry a Smaller Gun
Weight is probably the main culprit behind concealed carry back pain and guns are not light. Your body will notice the extra strain. Police officers are very prone to back pain because of how often they carry firearms. Law enforcers are also prone to what is known as duty belt pain and ‘policeman’s heel’, a slang term for plantar fasciitis. Duty belt pain is of course caused by the weight of all the gear that police officers carry at their waists.
So how do you remedy this situation? The easiest way is to simply get a lighter gun. Try relegating your full-sized pistol to backup duty and see if your back pain is alleviated. You could also consider just selling or trading your big gun for a lighter model. The lighter the gun you carry, the less strain and back pain you will have. Revolvers are great concealed carry guns, but their all-steel construction makes them heavy in terms of ounces per-round. To alleviate back pain you might try opting for a polymer framed gun such as a Glock or Smith & Wesson M&P. Back pain is real and will affect your quality of life. Small of the back carry pain is real. Appendix carry pain is real. Unbalanced carry pain is real. Always be aware of your body and the strain you are putting on it.
Choose a Better Holster
IWB carry back pain is sometimes caused by an inadequate holster. When carrying in this style you should try to avoid the holster pressing into your side as much as you can. If your holster presses into the side of your hips, it can become extremely painful. Pressing usually occurs because your holster does not conform well with the shape of your hip or lacks proper cushioning. For more comfort, consider getting a new holster or try to reposition your holster until you find the most comfortable concealed carry position.
So how do you find the right holster for concealed carry? Lots of factors go into this. Generally, however, you’ll want to look at the following factors when choosing a holster:
Fit – You want your holster to fit just right—not too loose, not too tight. Also always choose a holster which is the perfect fit for your weapon.
Retention – Your firearm should be effectively retained until drawn. If you are moving around or running, you should not be worried about losing your firearm. Retention is a holster’s main responsibility.
Access – When you need your handgun, you’ll need to be able to access and draw it with ease. You don’t want to end up dead because of a slow draw. An inaccessible handgun could defeat the purpose of carrying altogether.
Stability – Your holster should stay securely in place. It should never shift position because you will need it in position when it is time to draw.
Low Profile – When thinking about how to reduce concealed carry back pain consider a low profile holster. You don’t want a big, bulky monster of a gun holster.. A holster that is too bulky will pull your pants down or lean too far away from your body, and this could cause further strain on your back.
Comfort –. What’s the point of wearing a holster if you will not be comfortable carrying? Some gun owners say that carrying a gun should be comforting but not necessarily comfortable. But let’s be real here, if your holster isn’t comfortable it is probably going to cause you back pain. Also, if your holster isn’t comfortable, you might not feel like carrying it. Don’t fall into that trap.
Consider using extra support when carrying. Extra support can help spread the weight of your weapon over a larger area and alleviate its strain. An extra support could be something like Perry Suspenders. These suspenders can attach to your belt and help lighten the weight on your hips. This is a tactic that has been used by the military.
Get a Better Gun Belt
If your gun belt is not made of durable material, chances are you will have to tighten it beyond what’s comfortable. A weak gun belt could be a factor in your holster digging into your hip and this could lead to nasty hip pointers. A too-tight belt can lead to nerve or muscle damage. Don’t underestimate the effect a proper gun belt can have on your ability to effectively carry a firearm. Belts are often the most neglected pieces of carry gear.
A gun belt is designed for an outside the waistband (OWB) concealed carry. The belt’s job is to hold the holster securely against your body while providing comfort and aiding in concealment. Gun belts are thicker than regular belts and are designed to withstand the wear and tear of daily concealed carry use and abuse. A strong gun belt is a must. Make sure to choose a gun belt that works in tandem with your holster to ensure the most comfortable concealed carry possible.
Exercise Your Lower Back and Core
Many people start to experience back pain as they grow older. As you age muscles can become brittle and you’ll need to start working them to maintain their mass and strength. When thinking about how to reduce concealed carry back pain, you’ll soon come to realize that exercising and strengthening your back muscles is one of the easiest ways to get rid of the pain. Your lower and mid back muscles as well as your core provide support to your spine and upper body. Start working on these muscle groups and the pain might just melt away.
Maintaining a strong, balanced core is one of the best ways to ensure proper spine health and peak performance. Core muscles affect your lower as well as your upper body. Your core’s connections to your legs have an impact on the way you stand, squat, and sit. A strong core can be beneficial for bone health and will make you less susceptible to injuries while concealed carrying.
Try to Lose Weight
Sometimes concealed carry back pain has little to do with concealed carrying. Packing on too many pounds can lead to a variety of diseases in addition to back pain. Exercising your lower back and core could be a great way to start your weight loss journey while also alleviating concealed carry back pain.
Consult Your Doctor About Concealed Carry Back Pain
If you find yourself experiencing concealed carry back pain regularly, you might want to consider having a talk with your doctor. While you may think concealed carrying is the reason for your pain, the real cause could turn out to be something else entirely. To be safe, it’s best to consult a health care professional when dealing with chronic pain.
Keep in mind that back pain is not only about comfort. If you’re suffering from back pain your draw could suffer as well. Your range of movement will likely be negatively impacted by any back problems and this could slow you down. If range of movement becomes an issue, try to carry a light handgun on your dominant side in a low holster. This should make drawing a bit easier. Remember that speed and access to your weapon will be crucial in a moment of crisis. Don’t let your back pain hinder your self-defense.
Loosen Your Belt to Minimize Pain
Belts can definitely aggravate the problem. If you use an IWB holster, loosen your belt. It’s recommended that you wear a belt that is at least an inch larger than your waist and hips. If your normal size is 30 wear try to tighten your belt as if you had a 31” or 32” waist. Remember that pressure and weight are forces working on your body at all times and that your belt plays a crucial role in this. Especially when there’s a firearm hanging off of it.
Switch Carry Location
Your winter clothes are probably a lot different than your summer duds. Many concealed carriers, due to concealment issues, carry smaller weapons in the summer and bigger weapons in the winter when bulky clothing can help conceal larger calibers. But you don’t have to wait for the season to change to switch up your carry. By becoming skilled at carrying in different positions, you’ll have more flexibility in your clothing choices and you’ll also be able to move the weight of your weapon around from time to time so that the same muscles aren’t always being overworked. One recommended position to work into your repertoire is a good old 3 o’clock carry. This carry can help to ease any pressure on your lower back.
Build a Strong Back
The simplest way to avoid concealed carry back pain is to build up your back muscles, especially the muscles in your lower back. Shoulder holsters will put pressure on your chest, upper back, shoulders, neck, and traps. If you’re a shoulder carrier, keep these areas in mind and make sure they are strong and healthy. Remember, your muscles work as a team, so don’t focus on only one area at the expense of the others.
Regular exercise has many benefits. Exercise not only builds muscles, but stretches them out, which is important for muscle health. Here are some exercise tips that can help alleviate IWB carry back pain:
Lower Stomach Strengthening
Having a strong lower stomach is important. This muscle group works in partnership with the lower back. If the lower tummy muscles are weak, they can cause the lower back to tighten and this could result in lower back pain.
For this exercise, lie on your back with knees bent and feet flat on the floor. Breathe in and as you breathe out bring one knee in towards your chest. As you breathe in return your feet to the floor. Try to do this 6-8 times for each leg.
Deep Abdominal Strengthening
A strong transverse abdominus can help alleviate concealed carry back pain. This muscle provides support for your lower back but in most people it is relatively weak.
To perform this exercise, lie on your back with a small cushion under your head and bend your knees. Make sure that your feet are hip distance apart and set firmly on the floor. Keep your upper body relaxed and chin gently tucked in. Take a deep breath and draw your belly towards your spine as you breathe out. Hold for 5 to 10 seconds.
Ensure a Balanced Concealed Carry
Finding balance is one of the best ways to reduce concealed carry back pain. Think about what you’re carrying. If you carry an M&P 45 on your left side try to balance that out with 2 spare magazines on your right side. Just remember to make sure that these weights are equal.
Postural imbalance can be another reason for concealed carry back pain. Consider carrying a small, lightweight pocket gun which will not have too much of an effect on your posture. You can also try wearing a well-balanced shoulder holster and balancing out the weight of the weapon by carrying spare magazines on your non-weapon side. Balance balance balance!
It’s gonna be hard to continually carry if you have a bad back. These tips on how to reduce concealed carry back pain will help lessen the load and alleviate the pain. Try them out and tell us what works for you in the comments!