The most important thing in self-exercises is the relief on the spinal canal. This is done by bending the spine. This pulls the vertebral bodies apart and enlarges the spinal canal.
In addition, spinal canal stenosis usually shows an increased hollow back, which is why stretching exercises are performed for the M. Iliopsoas (hip flexor), since this muscle tends to pull the spine into lordosis when it is tensed in the area where it originates at the vertebrae (BWK 12, LWK 1-4). Spinal canal stenosis is a narrowing of the spinal canal due to changes in the spinal column caused by osteophytes, hypertrophy of the flava ligament or other degenerative diseases of the spine that constrict the spinal canal. The nerves of the extremities emerge from the spinal canal and are also irritated by the narrowing.
As a result, radiating complaints are the most common symptoms. Tingling, numbness in both legs and severe pain in the legs and back are common symptoms. The ability to bear weight is reduced as a result. In most cases, the symptoms improve when the spine is brought into a flexion because the spinal canal is pulled apart in this way.
Exercises from physiotherapy
Exercise 1: The patient lies in prone position over the end of the couch and holds on to the couch with his arms. The legs remain hanging loosely. This position alone causes a pull on the lower spine.
The therapist can also increase the pull on the lower back by pushing the pelvis. The patient can perform this exercise at home, but requires a height-adjustable couch. Exercise 2: The patient lies on his back on the floor.
He lifts his legs as close to the body as possible and thus forms a kind of package. By slightly rotating the entire torso, the patient also loosens up the entire back area. Alternatively, the patient can choose the step position, in which he or she places the legs at a 90° angle on a cube or at home on a sofa or chair.
The patient can also place a heat cushion under the back to relax the muscles. Exercise 3: The patient sits on a chair and leans forward completely with the entire upper body until his hands touch the floor. He remains in this position for a while to achieve relief.
Exercise 4: Stretching exercise for the M. Iliopsoas: The patient lies on his back and pulls one leg towards the body. He tries to push the stretched leg completely through and push it down to the floor. Hold this position for 30 seconds.
To increase stretching, place the leg on the edge of a therapy bench or on the side of the bed and let the stretched leg hang down into the overhang. The other leg remains tightened. This will exert increased traction on the Iliopsoas muscle so that it can be stretched properly. More exercises can be found in the articles:
- Exercises for spinal canal stenosis in the lumbar spine
- Exercises for spinal canal stenosis in the cervical spine
- Spinal canal stenosis in the lumbar spine – conservative treatment without surgery
All articles in this series:
