Corrective Exercise Toolkit

Loss of Lumbar Extension

Loss of lumbar extension reduces the ability to maintain neutral spine during hip hinge and overhead tasks.

Lumbar - Mobility

Biomechanical Mechanism

Lumbar stiffness, hip flexor tightness, and thoracic limitations can limit lumbar extension.

Clinical Rationale

Limited lumbar extension shifts stress to hips and thoracic spine. Restoring extension improves posture and function.

Practical Solution

Restore extension tolerance and reinforce neutral spine in hinge patterns.

Common Compensations

Progression

  1. 1Level 1: Low-load press-ups
  2. 2Level 2: Controlled hinge
  3. 3Level 3: Loaded hinge
  4. 4Level 4: Functional integration

Regression

  • Reduce range
  • Use supported positions
  • Limit load

Red Flags

Differential Diagnosis

Lumbar disc pathologyFacet restriction
Related Assessments
lumbar lordosis assessmentsldl assessment
Related Exercises
prone press uphip hinge drillsphinx reachcat cowthoracic extension foam roller

Evidence

Level: limited

Evidence for modifying lumbar posture with exercise is limited and variable.

Effects of Stretching or Strengthening Exercise on Spinal and Lumbopelvic Posture: A Systematic Review with Meta-Analysis.

systematic review/meta-analysis View source

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