By Chad Guerrero, OT
Lumbar Degenerative Disc Program (can supplement other exercises and techniques as needed)
Phase 1
1. Cobra Pose 25 to 50% range of motion (3-5 second holds) 2 sets of 10-15 reps
2. Supine Curl Ups (set the core) (3-5 second holds) 2 sets of 10-15 reps
3. Double Leg Bridges 2 sets of 10-15 reps
4. Supine Straight Pelvic Tilts (hands in small of lumbar back) 2 sets of 10-15 reps
5. Seated-Weighted Leg Extensions 2 sets of 10-15 reps
6. Seated Leg Curls 2 sets of 10-15 reps
7. Standing 4-Way Hip (Bands or weights) 2 sets of 10-15 reps
8. Seated Ball/Band Exercise (Hips) 2 sets of 10-15 reps
9. Trunk Isometrics
10. Standing Squats with progression to cushion/pads
11. Supine Double Knee-To-Chest Stretches (10-20 second holds) 1 set of 3 reps
12. Estim (if appropriate) and Moist Heat
13. Soft Tissue Mobilization Techniques
14. Supine Lumbar Manual Traction
15. Laser/Ultrasound/Shockwave
Phase 2
1. Cobra Pose 100% with manual resistance to upper back (3-5 second holds) 3 sets of 10-15 reps
2. Resisted seated abdominal curl 3 sets of 10-15 reps
3. Single Leg Bridges (3-5 second holds) 3 sets of 10-15 reps
4. Standing Kettle Bell, Dumbbell, or Goblet Squats 3 sets of 10-15 reps
5. Total Gym Presses 3 sets of 10-15 reps
6. Seated Leg Extension Machine 3 sets of 10-15 reps
7. Bird Dogs (Quad or Standing)
8. Opposite Arm and Legs
9. Standing Wall Towel Slides
10. Standing or Sitting Resisted Band Exercises
11. Stretch strap straight leg raise stretches (15-30 second holds) 1 set of 3 reps
12. Estim (if appropriate) and Moist Heat
13. Soft Tissue Mobilization Techniques
14. Supine Lumbar Manual Traction
15. Laser/Ultrasound/Shockwave