A stress fracture occurs when a bone or bones in the lower back slip out of place -- a condition known as spondylolysis or spondylolisthesis. If the fracture progresses too far out of place, the bone can press on surrounding nerves, which causes pain in the back that can potentially radiate down the legs. A spine stress fracture can occur due to genetic predisposition, aging or an injury sustained while playing sports or after an accident. Because spine stress fractures can cause muscle spasms and nerve pain, physical therapy exercises can help relieve stress and pressure in the back.
Rotation in Lying
This exercise helps to relieve stress and pressure in the lumbar region of the spine, which is where spine stress fractures most commonly occur. Begin by lying on your back with your feet on the ground. Extend your arms, palms facing down. Keep your knees together and slowly drop your legs to your left side, slightly lifting your lower back off the floor. Return the legs to your starting position, then repeat and lower your legs to your right side. Repeat this exercise 10 times.
Knee Lifts
Knee lift exercises help strengthen the back, abdominal and hamstring muscles, which can be affected by a spine stress fracture. Stand with your feet hip-width apart and your hands on your hips. Lift your right knee in the air, but do not lift past hip-height. Lower the foot to the ground and repeat on your left leg as if you are marching. Repeat this exercise 10 times on each leg.
Seated Hamstring Stretch
This exercise helps relieve tension in the back of your thighs. Sit with your legs extended in front of you. Flex your feet and extend your arms forward, grasping your toes if possible. Try not to curve your back, but instead extend forward at your lower back. Take deep breaths as you hold this position for 15 to 30 seconds, feeling a stretch in your hamstrings. Release the stretch, wait for 10 seconds, then repeat the exercise.
Knees to Chest
This exercise can help relieve pain and tension when your lower back hurts. Lie on your back with your feet on the ground and your arms extended with your palms facing down. Bring your knees in toward chest, pulling them in as much as possible. Wrap you arms around each knee, feeling a stretch in your lower back. Hold this position for 15 seconds, then lower your legs to your starting position. Rest for 15 seconds, then repeat two additional times.
