Flat back syndrome

FLAT BACK

Flat back syndrome is an abnormal condition where the spine loses its

natural low back curve to become flat. The spine becomes imbalanced and

the patient leans forward.

Reduction of normal lumbar lordosis can produce fixed sagittal imbalance

resulting in flat back deformity.

FLAT BACK

Degenerative disc disease

• Progressive degeneration of the intervertebral discs or the shock absorbers of the spine may lead to a loss of height in the front part of the spine.

Post Laminectomy Syndrome

• Patients previously treated with a laminectomy or other lumbar surgery to decompress the spinal nerves to treat stenosis.

Vertebral Compression Fractures

• Compression fractures are often the result of weak spinal bones due to osteoporosis.

Ankylosing Spondylitis• Chronic inflammatory disease that

causes stiffness and arthritis throughout the entire spine.

CAUSES OF FLAT BACK

Many patients with lumbar flat back syndrome may be treated without surgery. Initial treatment typically includes and appropriate

exercise routine to include aerobic fitness, weight

bearing exercise, and core muscle strengthening.

Main areas of exercise for flat back• Exercise to maintain

normal pelvic position – for optimal all alignment of the spine and for encouraging anterior pelvic tilt on the sagittal plane

• Hamstring flexibility and lengthening exercises, to improve anterior pelvic tilt

• Strengthening hip flexors• Exercise to improve

general lower back vertebral mobility

EXERCISES FOR FLAT BACK

Types• Walking - walking for exercise is very gentle on the back, and walking

two to three miles three times per week is very helpful for patients.• Stationary bicycling - riding a stationary exercise bike allows patients to

engage in exercise without vibrating the spine.• Water therapy - Doing exercise in the water provides for effective

conditioning while minimizing stress on the back because the buoyancy of water counteracts the gravitational pull that can compress the spine. When 'unweighted' in water, a patient becomes more mobile, and stretching and strengthening exercises are less painful.

Time• Elevating the heart rate for at least 20 minutes

AEROBIC EXERCISES

Benefits of Low-Impact Aerobic Exercise

• Aerobic exercise increases the flow of blood and nutrients to back structures which supports healing, and can decrease the stiffness in the back and joints that lead to back pain.

• The patients are also more likely to stay functional (e.g. continue working and carry on with recreational activities), whereas those patients with chronic low back pain who do not engage in aerobic exercise are more likely to experience the gradual loss of functional capabilities.

AEROBIC EXERCISES

Helps to build strong muscles to support neck and

back.Increase flexibility and movement if the joints of the body and spine.

5 to 10 counts, 3 times a week.

SPINAL FLEXIBILITY AND STRETCHING EXERCISES

LYING & PRONE POSITION

S&F EXERCISES

HANDS & KNEES POSITION

S&F EXERCISES

NECKFLEX

EXERCISES

NECKSTRENGTH EXERCISES