Lumbar Stabilization

CAUTION:

Some of these exercises can produce anterior pelvic rotation while others can do the opposite action. Each exercise has to be separately addressed to your specific problem. I strongly recommend a prior clinician’s assessment. In some cases they can irritate your symptoms. If you experience an increase and/or persistence in back pain, stop. Consult it with your therapist.

Lumbar Stabilization Exercises

Abdominal Bracing

Starting position: Supine, hookline position

Ending position: Tightening lower abdominal muscles.

Partial Sit-Ups with Side Rotation

Starting position: Supine, hookline position, arms reaching forward.

Ending position: Sit up, rotate your trunk, arms reaching toward rotated side

Partial Sit-Ups

Starting position: Supine, hookline position, arms reaching forward.

Ending position: Sit up, head straight back, eyes to the ceiling. Do not bring chin to chest.

Bridging with Both Feet on the Floor

Starting position: Supine, hookline position.

Ending position: Raising hips up.

Iliopsoas Strengthening

Starting position: Supine, hookline position, hand against thigh.

Ending position: Hip flexion with pushing against hand resistance.

Leg Thrusts

Starting position: Supine, both legs off the floor with one leg flexed in hip, other extended.

Ending position: Flexed leg is trusted forward. Straight leg is flexing.

Prone With Opposite Leg Lifts

Starting position: Prone, arms and legs extended.

Ending position: Raising alternative legs.

Quadruped With Leg Raises

Starting position: Quadruped position.

Ending position: Alternatively raising opposite legs, holding 3 to 5 seconds. Patient can have cuff weight on his/her ankles.

Straight Leg Rising

Starting position: Supine, one leg in hookline position, opposite leg extended.

Ending position: Tightening lower abdominal muscles.

Straight Back Bends 

Starting position: Standing in an upright position, weights in both hands straight down.

Ending position: Leaning forward with straight back and head up no more than 45 degrees. Avoid arching lower back.