Initial Assessment
The Medical Lumbar Extension Machine is the only computerised technology capable of isolating the lumbar extensor or core-stabilising spinal muscles. This very important function allows these muscles to be objectively tested for strength and then compared to normal strength values for the population of the same age group, height, weight and age of the individual. The medical machine is then able to be used as an exact, safe, strengthening tool which monitors and measures the lumbar extensor muscle activity during the exercise phase.
Research from the University of Florida clearly shows a strong correlation between this muscle group becoming stronger and the reduction or abolition of back pain and sciatica.
Following a full musculoskeletal assessment the physiotherapist will recommend an isometric spinal strength test, if appropriate. The spinal strength test involves being seated in the medical lumbar machine and having the lower half of your body immobilised by a pelvic and leg restraint mechanism. Restraining your lower body is one of the keys to the effectiveness of isolating the lumbar extensors so that they can be accurately strength tested and exercised.
Once positioned in the machine, your body has no option but to only use the lumbar extensor muscles. Testing may not be done at the initial assessment if the Physiotherapist decides that your symptoms are too acute and risk being stirred up by strength testing.
From these measurements and your medical history we can accurately determine a safe and effective level of strengthening for your spine on the MedX lumbar extension machine. You then proceed onto MedX spinal strengthening therapy.
