Lumbar Spinal Stenosis Exercises |
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The spinal canal runs through the vertebrae and
contains the nerves supplying sensation and strength to the legs.
Between the vertebrae are the inter vertebral discs and the spinal facet
joints. With age, the discs and joints become less spongy and less
fluid, leading to back muscle pain. The bones and ligaments of the
spinal facet joints can thicken and enlarge due to arthritis, and thus
push into the spinal canal causing the narrowing of the lumbar spinal
canal. The condition is also known as spinal stenosis.
Spinal stenosis results in activity avoidance. This results in
reduced flexibility, lowered strength and diminished cardiovascular
endurance. Lumbar spinal stenosis exercises for back pain, especially
the chronic lower back pain exercises, usually begin with stretching
exercises to restore flexibility to back muscles.
You should stretch
frequently to maintain flexibility. Cardiovascular exercise, such as
stationary bicycling or walking on a treadmill, may be added to build
endurance and improve circulation to the nerves. Improved blood supply
to the nerves may assist in relieving back pain from spinal stenosis.
For further details, read Advice
On Spinal Stenosis.
Exercises to strengthen back muscles to
relieve back pain include exercises for the muscles of the back,
abdomen, and legs and are to be followed along with lumbar spinal
stenosis exercises. Your therapist may advise you on how best to
incorporate maintenance exercises for lower back pain into your life,
either at home using simple equipment or at a fitness facility. For some
individuals with spinal stenosis, home low back pain treatment is a
better option. Strategies for pacing activities and conserving energy
may be reviewed and remodeled. Walking aids, such as canes and walkers,
may also be recommended.
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