The spinal cord is an essential element of the nervous system that runs the length of the back and is encased within the vertebrae for protection. The spinal vertebrae are numbered according to their corresponding sections of the spinal cord, which consists of four segments: the cervical, thoracic, lumbar and sacral. The nerves of the spinal cord serve different regions of the body, so an injury to a particular area typically results in loss of function below the level of injury. For this reason, doctors often classify spinal cord injuries according to their location to help determine the extent of damage. This will also help determine the level of activity and exercise that is possible with a spinal cord injury.
Identification
The section of the spinal cord known as the lumbar region provides nerve function to the lower portions of the body, including the hips, legs and buttocks. A spinal cord injury is not always the result of a complete break in the spinal cord; rather, the cord is often damaged enough that functioning below the level is compromised. An L2 spinal cord injury is in the lumbar region of the back, which is found between the thoracic and sacral sections. A person with an L2 spinal cord injury may have function in the lower legs, knees and hips. The ability to walk may still be an option, particularly with the use of assistive devices.
Upper Extremities
Exercises for spinal cord injuries consist of those that are aerobic and those that provide strength training. If you have an L2 spinal cord injury, you may perform cardiovascular exercises that work the arms, shoulders and upper body. Some of these types of exercises may include using arm cycling machines or rowing machines, which will increase the heart rate and condition the cardiovascular system. Additionally, weight lifting and resistance training for the arms involves strengthening the upper body and stretching the muscles. This can be performed by lifting arm weights to work the upper arms and shoulders.
Lower Extremities
You may also work the lower extremities to continue with an exercise program. Using the help of a physical therapist, you can perform exercises based on your level of functioning below the L2 injury. Some people are able to stand or walk and may be able to incorporate modified exercises that use these muscle groups. Additionally, range of motion exercises, which may need to be performed with the help of a caregiver, help to stretch the muscles and to prevent stiffness and atrophy.
Recommendations
A successful exercise program for an L2 spinal cord injury involves regular workouts to promote maximum benefits. Patients with spinal cord injuries may need to spend a minimum of three to four days per week in an exercise program to maintain consistency. Some exercises may be done at home, while others may require the use of adaptive equipment, depending on overall level of functioning. If you have an L2 spinal injury, you can work with a physical therapist to teach you exercises to work together or work at your own pace at home.
