L1: What to prescribe them for

What to prescribe them for

This is an intermediate series of exercises and should not be the first prescription for patients with lower back pain. One exception to this may be athletes or patients who are already generally physically fit. These exercises can be a good replacement for high load exercises such as sit-ups when a physically active patient wants to maintain abdominal conditioning while also protecting their back.

The following conditions can respond favourably to this series of exercises:

• Lower back pain1,2
• Spondylolysis3
• Spondylolisthesis3

You can also use these exercises to:

• Improve ‘core stability’ for sporting activities4
• Prevent sports injury5-7
• Prevent falls8
• Improve breathing technique
• Improve upright posture9
• Improve balance9