Spinal stabilization is an active form of exercise that strengthens muscles to help support the spine and reduce low back pain. With the assistance of a chiropractor and through a regimen of exercises, the patient is trained to maintain a neutral spine position. The goal is to reduce back pain, heal soft-tissue injuries such as muscle strains and torn ligaments, and decrease the chance of back injury due to repetitive stress.
The spinal stabilization therapy includes a range of exercises that typically progress from beginning to more advanced:
- From static (lying) to dynamic (standing or jumping)
- From resisting gravity to resisting additional outside force
- From predictable to unpredictable movements
- From individual components of a movement to the complete range of motion in a movement
At all times the neutral spine position is maintained. Progression to the next exercise generally depends on learning to maintain the neutral spine properly during the current exercise. The physical therapist or exercise therapist is trained to help the patient learn the proper technique.
