Isolated Stretching Exercises to Reduce Back Pain

spinal stenosis

Herniated Disk Diagnosis

If you have been diagnosed with a herniated disk a few exercises that can be performed if your sciatica pain is being caused by a herniated disk are called "extension exercises" or "press-ups". Some more advanced exercises are the "upper back extension" which helps strengthen the lower back muscle. Another advanced exercise is "Curl-ups" which helps to strengthen the upper abdominal muscles.

Spinal Stenosis Diagnosis

When your sciatica pain is associated with spinal stenosis "flexion exercises" (bending forward) may be recommended. You should do some stretching and strengthening exercises. Stretching can be accomplished by doing some "back flexion". Strengthening exercises would consist of "Hook-lying march" and "curl-ups".

Degenerative Disc Disease Diagnosis

Degenerative disk disease exercises generally require someone instructing you personally as the exercises are a little more complicated and need to be done correctly to obtain maximum results. The recommended exercises include: "Hook-lying march","Hook-lying march combination",and "Bridging".

Isthmic Spondylolisthesis Diagnosis

The exercises that should be done for Isthmic Spondylolisthesis usually requires some personal instruction as they are more difficult to do properly and you don't get as much benefit from them if they aren't done correctly. The recommended exercises usually include:"Pelvic tilt","Curl-ups",and "Hook-lying march".

Piriformis Syndrome Diagnosis

For piriformis syndrome stretching exercises are usually recommended. Some of the recommended ones are: "Supine piriformis stretches" and "Buttocks stretch". These exercises can be easily performed however you may want to check with a medical specialist on the proper form to use when doing these exercises.

Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction Diagnosis

For sacroiliac joint dysfunction stretching exercises and range of motion are generally recommended. These exercises would include: "Single knee to chest stretch","Press-up" and "Lumbar rotation-non-weight bearing". Proper form should be utilized when performing theses exercises. You may want to check with a physical therapist or other spine specialist on the proper form that should be utilized.

In conclusion, there are several different and specific diagnosis that are causing your sciatica pain. Usually a physical therapist, chiropractor, physiatris, certified athletic trainer (ATC), or other spine specialist will prescribe specific exercises you should do and teach you how to do them. For each diagnosis there are specific exercises that can be done to help relieve your pain and discomfort from sciatica. You should always seek out a diagnosis from your physician to determine the underlying cause of your sciatica pain. To get the most out of your exercise-for-sciatica you should commit to a regular and longterm program. This will not only help alleve your current pain and discomfort but also help to prevent your symptoms from returning.