PHASE I (Days 7-12):

Goals:

• Return to ADL’s
• Functional dynamic lumbar stability
• Normal gait

Exercises: (Stabilization)

• Supine:
  • Heel slides
  • SLR
  • Marching
  • Dead bugs stabilized
  • Curl ups with spine in protected position
  • Diagonal curl ups with spine in protected position
• Bridging:
  • Two legs
  • Mini marching
  • Single leg
• Prone:
  • Single leg & arm lifts
  • Simultaneous opposite leg & arm lifts
  • Bilateral arm & leg lifts
  • Modified push up with neutral spine
• Quadruped:
  • Single leg & arm lifts
  • Simultaneous opposite leg & arm lifts

PHASE II (Week 5-D/C):

Goals:

• Upper and lower extremity strengthened
• Restored lumbar spine motion

Exercises:

• Aerobic: walking, bike
• UE & LE strengthening
• Squats
• Lunges
• Progress dynamic stabilization program
• Stretching:
  • Hamstrings
  • Quads
  • Hip flexors
  • Calves
  • Hip rotators (IR & ER)
  • Glutes
  • Low back
  • ITB
• Begin functional activities to prepare for return to work.

PHASE III (Return to Work):

• Work simulated exercises
• Increased ADL independence activities

Click here to download: Laminectomy Protocol