Download a Free Physical Therapy Exercises for Lumbar Compression Fractures PDF

If you are a clinician treating patients with lumbar compression fractures, then you know how incredibly painful and debilitating those injuries can be, especially for older adults. Fortunately, physical therapy can significantly manage pain, improve mobility after an injury, and prevent fractures from happening in the future. Having a readily accessible set of evidence-based exercises can save you time while improving your treatment plans and patient outcomes. That’s why we’ve created a free, downloadable PDF of lumbar compression fracture-specific exercises for use in your practice. 

This article explores a range of physical therapy exercises designed to improve stability, and mitigate symptoms associated with lumbar compression fractures.  We’ll go over the specific conditions these exercises focus on, offer advice on how and when to use them, and explain the benefits of using our free lumbar compression fracture handout in your practice to improve patient care and make your treatment processes more efficient.

How to Use the Physical Therapy Exercises for Lumbar Compression Fracture PDF

• Patient Education: Use the handout to educate patients about their condition and the importance of adhering to the prescribed exercises.
• Structured Exercise Program: The handout outlines a step-by-step exercise regimen that patients can follow at home, ensuring continuity of care between clinic visits.
• Visual Guidance: Each exercise includes images demonstrating proper form, which can help patients perform exercises correctly and safely.

When to Use the Physical Therapy Exercises for Lumbar Compression Fracture PDF

The handout can be used in various stages of patient care.

• Initial Assessment: Once your patient has been screened and cleared for a PT evaluation, introduce the handout as part of the comprehensive treatment plan.
• Post-Acute Phase: Once the fracture is stable and the patient has been approved for initiating gentle exercise, the handout becomes an essential guide for daily practice.
• Long-Term Maintenance and Prevention: For chronic conditions or ongoing rehabilitation, the handout can help patients maintain progress and prevent re-injury.

Why to Use the Physical Therapy Exercises for Lumbar Compression Fracture PDF

• Consistency: Provides a standardized exercise protocol that patients can easily follow.
• Compliance: Helps improve patient adherence to prescribed exercises, which is critical for effective rehabilitation.
• Outcome Tracking: Allows clinicians to monitor progress and adjust exercises based on patient feedback and performance.

Understanding Lumbar Compression Fractures

Lumbar compression fractures occur when compressive forces to the vertebral body or facet joints exceed the structural integrity of the bone. They can occur from trauma, but those with weakened bones due to age-related changes, osteoporosis, or other inflammatory or degenerative conditions are at higher risk of experiencing them. These fractures can be extremely painful and may lead to significant mobility issues if not treated properly. Patients with lumbar compression fractures often experience severe back pain, reduced spinal mobility, and, in some cases, nerve impairment. 

Conditions Associated with Lumbar Compression Fracture

Understanding the conditions that lead to lumbar compression fractures is crucial for effective treatment and prevention. Below are some of the most common conditions that these exercises can help manage:

Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is characterized by a weakening of bones due to age-related degeneration. Patients with osteoporosis are more prone to lumbar compression fractures from minor trauma, falls, or even routine activities. Symptoms of osteoporosis include back pain, decreased height, and a stooped posture. 

If left untreated, osteoporosis can lead to chronic pain and significant mobility issues. Incorporating exercises like Supine Pelvic Tilt and Supine Pelvic Lateral Tilting can help strengthen the pelvic muscles and improve spinal stability, which is essential for managing osteoporosis.

Traumatic Injury

Acute lumbar compression fractures can result from traumatic injuries such as falls or car accidents. Symptoms typically include sudden onset of back pain, limited spinal mobility, and possible nerve symptoms. Without proper intervention, these fractures can lead to chronic pain and long-term disability. Exercises such as Supine March are beneficial in rebuilding core strength and enhancing stability post-injury.

Spinal Tumors

Tumors in the spine can weaken the vertebrae, leading to compression fractures. Symptoms may include back pain, neurological deficits, and systemic signs of malignancy. In addition to early medical treatment, introducing early physical therapy treatment is also crucial to manage pain and prevent further musculoskeletal complications. Gentle exercises like Supine Diaphragmatic Breathing can help maintain respiratory function and reduce discomfort for these patients.

Kyphosis

Kyphosis, or an excessive outward curvature of the spine, is often associated with osteoporosis, and can lead to compression fractures. If not treated, this condition can lead to severe back pain, mobility deficits, and respiratory issues. Postural correction exercises, such as Standing Anti-Rotation Press with Anchored Resistance, can be particularly helpful in managing kyphosis and improving spinal alignment.

Spondylitis

This inflammatory condition affects the vertebrae, causing pain and stiffness, particularly in the lower back. Chronic inflammation can weaken the bones, leading to compression fractures. Symptoms include chronic pain and reduced spinal flexibility. Consistent practice of gentle mobility exercises, such as the Supine Pelvic Tilt, can help relieve stiffness and improve spinal mobility in patients with spondylitis.

Detailed Exercise Guide for Lumbar Compression Fractures

Here are the lumbar fracture exercises as detailed in our free downloadable physical therapy exercises for lumbar compression fractures PDF:

Supine Pelvic Tilt

Setup: Begin by lying on your back with your knees bent and feet resting on the floor.

Movement: Slowly tilt your pelvis forward, tilt it back to neutral, and tilt it backward. Repeat these movements.

Tip: Concentrate your movements only on your pelvis.

Supine Pelvic Lateral Tilting

Setup: Begin lying on your back with your legs bent and feet resting on the ground.

Movement: Lift one side of your pelvis a few inches towards the ceiling. Lower it back down and repeat on the other side.

Tip: Move each side of your pelvis equally.

Supine Diaphragmatic Breathing

Setup: Begin lying on your back with your knees bent and feet resting on the floor.

Movement: Exhale, drawing in your abdominal muscles as if you are pulling your belly button toward the floor, then inhale, focusing on expanding your belly instead of your chest.

Tip: Keep your lower back flat on the ground during the exercise.

Supine March

Setup: Begin lying on your back with your arms resting at your sides, your knees bent, and your feet flat on the ground.

Movement: Tighten your abdominals and slowly raise one of your legs off the floor, keeping your knee bent. Return to the starting position and repeat with the other leg.

Tip: Keep your trunk stiff during the exercise, and do not let your lower back arch.

Standing Anti-Rotation Press with Anchored Resistance

Setup: Begin in an upright standing position. With both hands, hold a resistance band that is anchored to your side.

Movement: Press your arms straight forward. Hold briefly, then bring your arms back in and repeat.

Tip: Keep your knees slightly bent, and do not let your trunk rotate as you press the band forward.

Enhance Patient Outcomes with MedBridge

MedBridge’s Home Exercise Program allows clinicians to elevate patient care with over 8,000 video-based exercises, comprehensive program building, and strong patient management capabilities. With smart search, customizable templates, one-click documentation, and patient feedback tracking, you can streamline your practice and enhance treatment outcomes. 

Accessing our printable exercise PDF and exploring our extensive library can equip your practice to more efficiently and effectively manage lumbar compression fractures.