LOW BACK EXERCISES: Advanced Program

Regular exercises to restore the strength of your back and a gradual return to everyday activities are important for your full recovery. Your orthopaedic surgeon and Dr. Becker may recommend that you exercise 10 to 30 minutes a day one to three times a day during your early recovery. They may suggest some of the following exercises. This guide can help you better understand your exercise and activity program, supervised Dr. Becker and orthopaedic surgeon.

-Advanced Exercise Program-



> Hip Flexor Stretch
Lie on your back near edge of bed, holding knees to chest. Slowly lower one leg down, keeping knee bent, until a stretch is felt across top of the hip/thigh. Hold 20 seconds. Relax.
- Repeat 5 times on each side.



> Piriformis Stretch
Lie on back with both knees bent. Cross one leg on top of the other. Pull opposite knee to chest until a stretch is felt in the buttock/hip area. Hold 20 seconds. Relax.
- Repeat 5 times each side.

Lumbar Stabilization Exercises With Swiss Ball




> Lie on stomach over ball.
1. "Walk" hands out in front of ball until ball is under legs. Reverse to starting position.
2. "Walk" hands out in front of ball until ball is under legs and slowly raise alternating arms over head.
3. "Walk" hands out in front of ball and slowly perform push-ups.

> Aerobic Exercises

Maintain spine in neutral position while stabilizing with abdominal muscles to protect the low back during aerobic exercise. 1. Stationary bike for 20 to 30 minutes. Use only recumbent or semi-recumbent stationary bicycles for this exercise. 2. Treadmill for 20 to 30 minutes.