Lumbar extension is the bending backward of the spine.
Physical therapy (PT)can help people with lumbar spinal stenosis improve strength and ROM and relieve symptoms.
Research shows PT can be as effective as surgery for spinal stenosis, with fewer dangerous side effects.
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This article discusses the standing lumbar extension, a basic lumbar extension exercise.
It also explains exactly how lumbar extension works to relieve back pain.
This can give your spinal nerves a little more room and may relieve spinal stenosis symptoms.
While many patients with spinal stenosis benefit from flexing their spine, others benefit from bending it backward.
Initially, you should feel increased back pain and leg pain or tingling.
Standing lumbar extension is not appropriate for you.
The Bottom Line
Lumbar spinal stenosis can be a difficult diagnosis to manage.
It can make walking challenging and limit your ability to work or enjoy recreational activities.
If you have stenosis, you may be tempted to engage in only flexion-based exercises for your condition.
Lumbar extensions work the lumbar extensors, a group of muscles that include the erector spinae and multifidus.
Extensions also work the gluteal and hamstring muscles.
Components of physical therapy for spinal stenosis may include:
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