Lumbar Stabilization

Lumbar stabilization is an active form of exercise used in physical therapy. It is designed to strengthen muscles to support the spine and help prevent lower back pain. Through a regimen of exercises, and with the initial help of an experienced physical therapist, the patient is trained to find and maintain her/his “neutral spine” position. The back muscles are then exercised to teach the spine how to stay in this position.

This exercise technique relies on proprioception, or the awareness of where ones joints are positioned. Performed on an ongoing basis, these exercises can help keep the back strong and well positioned.

Lumbar stabilization is a multi-component program and involves education/training, strength, flexibility and endurance. It is generally used during all phases of a back pain episode and may be prescribed after a thorough evaluation of the patient’s specific condition.

The goals of lumbar stabilization exercises include:

• Reduce amount of back pain
• Gain control over the movements of—and forces acting on—the spine during daily activity
• Heal soft-tissue injury, such as muscle strain and torn ligaments
• Reduce the chance of back injury due to repetitive motions or sudden movements or stresses

This information is courtesy of www.spine-health.com