Angled Lumbar Flexion and Extension

If you can’t discern any difference in changes in your low back pain with flexion and extension, try incorporating some angles in the movement.

1. Start with bending backwards at a 45 degree angle ten times (a simple way to do this is to run your hand down the back of the same side leg as far down as you can go without bending your knees). Try it on both sides and see if either one reduces your back pain, centralizes leg numbness and tingling, or returns some strength to your leg.

2. If no results, vary the angle to about 23 degrees and 68 degrees (zero degrees is straight behind you). You may have to wait an hour between tests and take notes if the discomfort makes it difficult to do the tests effectively.

3. If angled extension does not produce reduction in pain, try angled flexion in the same manner.

Stick to the angle that causes you to experience the most improvement in your back pain.

NEXT:  Lateral Flexion (Side bending)

<  Previous Page

(Page 8 of 17)