Table 2 Multifidus activation exercise protocol
Activity | Description | Initial dose | Goals for progression |
|---|---|---|---|
Preferential, isometric multifidus activation exercises | • Isolated multifidus contraction while prone, seated, standing • Isolated co-contraction of multifidus and deep abdominals in sitting, standing | 5 repetitions, 10-s hold with normal breathing | Progress towards 10 repetitions, 10-s hold, perform 2–3× daily |
General lumbar extensor and multifidus activation exercises | • Quadruped single arm raises | 10 lifts, 5-s hold each arm | Progress towards 20 lifts, add arm + leg lift |
• Side-support exercise | 10 repetitions, 5-s hold each side | Progress towards 20 repetitions | |
• Bridging while hook-lying | 10 repetitions, 5-s hold | Progress towards 20 repetitions | |
• Prone single leg lift | 10 lifts, 5-s hold each leg | Progress towards 20 lifts, add arm + leg lift | |
• Prone trunk lift | 10 lifts, 5-s hold | Progress towards 20 lifts |