Exercise for sciatica from isthmic spondylolisthesis
Sciatica can be caused by isthmic spondylolisthesis
if the condition results in nerve root irritation or
impingement. In most cases, if isthmic spondylolisthesis
affects or pinches a nerve root it will affect the
L5 nerve root. For more information on this condition,
see Overview
of isthmic spondylolisthesis.
When treating sciatica resulting from isthmic spondylolisthesis
with exercise, the spine specialist will typically
recommend an exercise program that is a hybrid of the
flexion based exercises (as when treating spinal stenosis)
and the stabilization program (as when treating degenerative
disc disease). The goal of this type of exercise program
is to teach the lumbar spine to remain stable in a
flexed position. Therefore, the exercises for sciatica
caused by isthmic spondylolisthesis are a combination
of both programs.
Specific sciatica exercises for isthmic spondylolisthesis
These sciatica exercises often require specific hands-on
instruction because they offer much less benefit if done
incorrectly, and the exercises tend to be much more difficult
to do than they appear.
Three exercises that are commonly prescribed for sciatic
pain from isthmic spondylolisthesis include:
-
Pelvic tilt. Specialists treating patients
with sciatica from isthmic spondylolisthesis frequently
recommend the pelvic tilt (Figure
10), as it will hold the lower spine in the
flexed position. This includes lying on the back
with knees bent and flattening the back by tightening
the lower stomach muscles, pulling the navel in
and up.
- Curl-ups. Strengthening the abdominals
with the curl-ups (Figure
6) will also help maintain a proper lower spine
position. Lie on the back with knees bent, fold arms
across the chest, tilt the pelvis to flatten the
back by pulling the navel (or belly button) in and
up. Then curl-up, lifting the head and shoulders
from the floor. Do not attempt to lift too high,
and bring the head and chest towards the ceiling.
For patients with neck pain, place the hands behind
the head to support the neck.
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