Core Conditioning Exercises for Lumbar Disc Health

Dr. Lynelle McSweeney is a holistic chiropractor here in Reno, and we’ve recommended her to a few of our clients. We’ve featured some of her content here on the Framework blog, and we’ve been lucky to do the same. In 2017, we wrote a post about core conditioning for lumbar disc health that was featured on her blog. Today, we’re revisiting the topic. If core conditioning for lumbar disc health is something that’s been recommended, you have a few options.

Thinking Beyond Abdominals

Core conditioning is about more than the abdominal muscles alone, or aesthetics, for that matter. Many back strengthening exercises focus on muscles in the stomach, buttocks and hips, as well as the spinal column and its supporting muscles. The core is made up of all of these muscles, so when we discuss core conditioning, we have a significant focus. The core muscles offer support to the spine, making them they’re crucial if you’re looking for relief from back pain.

There are many effective core conditioning and back-strengthening exercises, but two of the most common are often found in physical therapy.

McKenzie Exercises

McKenzie exercises are a group of spine extension movements named after a New Zealand physical therapist. These exercises can help reduce pain associated with diminished disc space. Some of the movements can be performed standing, while others from a prone position. The focus is on contracting core muscles, sometimes with accompanying arm movements that offer stability and additional spine extension.

When a radiculopathy (leg pain as a result of disc herniation) is involved, McKenzie exercises can often help centralize the pain, moving it from the leg into the back. Once a patient is dealing with back pain only, there are often non-surgical options that can help him or her continue to improve.

Dynamic Lumbar Sterilization

This is an exercise technique in which the patient is directed into a neutral spine position. From there, the patient is shown exercises designed to help maintain that neutral position.

Other Options

Finding the right exercises for your health needs shouldn’t be a guessing game. That’s why the trainers at Framework Personal Training in Reno start new sessions with complete health histories. Having the whole story means we can address your issues completely. If lumbar pain is a problem for you, we may be able to help. We also highly recommend Dr. McSweeney if you’re struggling with chronic back, neck, or joint pain.