Lumbosacral stabilization exercises involve a co-contraction of anterior and posterior trunk muscles in order to stabilize a neutral spine position.
PURPOSE: To stabilize the spine and enable extremity work to be performed without creating stress on the lumbosacral spine and associated tissues. To enable the larger dorsal muscles to protect discal and ligamentous tissue.
Upper and Lower extremities are frequently included as these accessory muscles must be developed to work with safe body mechanics. The goal of stabilization is to anchor proximally so the person can move safely in static and dynamic ways. This is especially critical when lifting is involved in a person’s daily schedule.
The “neutral spine” mentioned above involves tilting the pelvis anteriorly with voluntary contractions of musculature and producing a slight lordosis at the lumbar spine. The landmarks of alignment in weightbearing are ears over shoulders and shoulders over hips.
INDICATIONS FOR L-S Stabilization:
- difficulty maintaining functionally neutral posture
- back pain
- patient performs frequent and daily lifting
- heavy lifting
- neuromuscular problems with associated trunk muscle imbalance
MUSCLES TO Exercise, Strengthen, Restore Endurance:
- Lower Abdominals
- Deep paraspinals
- Rotatores
- Pelvic Floor
- Hip Rotators
TISSUES/MUSCLES TO Elongate:
- Hamstrings
- Anterior spinal ligaments
- Hip Flexors
