Spinal fusion is a procedure in which doctors correct problems in your spinal column by "welding" two of your vertebrae together to form one bone. This procedure often requires a period of bed rest followed by exercises designed to help restore core strength and stability. While spinal fusion is designed to correct serious problems with your back, you can still stay active and healthy by performing ab exercises that place little strain on your fused vertebrae.
Leg Lifts In Water
Aquatic exercise can be effective at helping strengthen your core by helping take some of the strain of your body weight off of your back. Stand in chest-deep water in a pool and hold onto the side of the pool with one hand. Keep your knee straight and lift your right leg off the pool floor and straight up in front of you. Go as far as you can and hold this position for about five seconds. Use a slow and controlled motion to return to the starting position. Perform an equal number of repetitions with each leg.
Pelvic Tilt
Lie down on the floor on your back with both knees bent and the soles of your feet flat on the floor. You can place your hands beside your head or rest them on your abdomen. Tighten the muscles of your abdomen by trying to press the small of your back into the floor. This motion will tilt your pelvis forward slightly. Hold this position for about 10 seconds and relax. Repeat.
Hook Lying March
Lie down on the floor on your back with both legs bent and the soles of your feet on the floor. Place your arms beside your body with your palms on the floor for stability. Lift your left leg off the floor while keeping your knee bent and the sole of your foot facing the floor. Lift your foot only about three to four inches off the floor. As your left foot begins lowering to the floor lift your right foot. Continue performing these lifts in a smooth motion that simulates marching in place. Keep your hips remain flat on the floor throughout this exercise.
The Pelvic Bridge
Lie on your back with both legs bent and the soles of your feet on the floor with your feet about shoulder-width apart. Extend both arms out to your sides at about a 45-degree angle from your body and place your palms on the floor for stability. Use your abdominal muscles to lift your hips off the floor until a straight line runs from your knees to your shoulders. Hold this position for about 10 seconds and use a slow and controlled motion to return to the starting position. Repeat.
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