Exercising post fully healed Lumbar Fusion

Pain & Rehab Forum [Moderated]
1

Hi,

5 years ago my mom (50F) had a L5-S1 fusion due to complications from a car accident. She still has some Paresthesia and pain in her legs.
She has intermittently exercised since then, but has not had much success strengthening her back and core. Convinced her to stop Orange theory and come to the gym with me so I can help train her and get to a stronger state.
I have a good foundation in exercise and anatomy and physiology (PA-C).
Medical training however does lack teaching strength and conditioning post surgery.

What are some precautions for a 50 year old, normal weight, women with a lumbar fusion?

I’ve had her start goblet squats, RDL’s, lunges;
non lumbar flexion core: Anti rotational/planks
misc upper body

should exercises like leg press/deadlifts be avoided?

Thanks

2

We have trained many individuals post-fusion to perform those lifts. Start conservatively and load gradually based on tolerance, and avoid pairing your coaching with unnecessary messages of danger around exercise with respect to her back.

1 Like
3

Ok seems like the way to go. Medicine truly needs more education with weightlifting.
Thanks for the advice