A fracture located in the lumbar region of your lower back is located in the small of your back where it forms an arch. This region is responsible for helping to support the weight of your upper body and therefore is critical to your quality of life. The physical therapy protocol often involves a period of immobilization and pain medication, followed by an exercise program tailored for your specific condition. While each case is different, chances are you will have to undergo some of the rehabilitation interventions listed below.
Immobilization/Pain Control
Your physical therapy may begin shortly after you reach the hospital, with immediate immobilization of your upper body and legs in order to help your fracture begin to heal. During this period you may be prescribed ice to help resolve any swelling in the region and pain medications to help you rest more comfortably. As is the case with each lumbar fracture, your specific rehab protocol depends heavily on your individual injury.
Lumbar Stabilization Exercises
When your doctor thinks you're ready, he may prescribe exercises designed to stabilize the muscles and bones in your lower back. These exercises help train your core muscles to hold your back in its proper alignment and can involve lifting your torso against the force of gravity and holding it for an extended period of time. These exercises are often progressive in nature, helping to stress your muscles in order to get them to stabilize your back following your injury.
Back Flexibility Exercises
These exercises are designed to help restore a full range of motion to your back following your injury. They often involve placing your back in a flexed and extended position and holding it there for several seconds. They often initially involve lifting your legs and knees and pulling them toward your body to help flex your lower spine, but this is not always the case and your treatment is likely to be specifically designed for your individual condition.
Back Strengthening Exercises
After a period of immobilization, you will probably be worried that your back is not strong enough to return to your previous activity level. Your physical therapy is likely to involve exercises designed to help restore strength and confidence in your lower back. These exercises often begin with lifting your body against the force of gravity, but often transition into a weight training program designed to help you return to your previous level of exercise.
References
- American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons: Fractures of the Thoracic and Lumbar Spine
- SpineHealth.com: Rehab and Exercise Following Spine Surgery
- Marin County Physical Therapy: Lumbar Flexion Exercises
- Marin Physical Therapy: Lumbar Stabilization Exercises
- PhysioAdvisor.com: Lower Back Strengthening Exercises
