Core Exercises And Stretches After Spinal Fusion- And For Everyone!

[@jkenefsky]

Please, more videos on spinal fusions...many of us with full thoracic due to scoliosis...lots of arthritis pain as a result.... great video. Thx.

[@drkristieennis]

You’re welcome! I will add that to my list:)

[@bernadettesemple9301]

@@drkristieennis Thank You!!!

[@drkristieennis]

Bernadette Semple you’re welcome!

[@julietaferrario4934]

I’m fused C3 to C7 , T7/8 and L 4-S1 I need help

[@gjament]

Yes!! We’ve been trying to find exercises for my son (age 25) who had a full spinal fusion! It’s soo hard to find any!!! This is great!! Thank you!!!

[@jillpayne6254]

Thank you. I was feeling "locked up" and having different pain then before surgery. I knew I needed to stretch but didn't want to undo any of the healing. I am feeling much better having watched this!

[@drkristieennis]

You’re welcome😊 I’m glad you are feeling better!

[@erich9162]

Lord Jesus please Give me the strength to "get back" to living a normal life. I had a L4/L5 spinal fusion 5 months ago and just feel like I'm in a rut. I've had 4 disketomy' since 2008. I'm 41 but feel like 81. Thank you for the vid. I'm gonna try me darndest to do these everyday and also walk. Good luck to everyone fighting this back pain. God Bless 🙌

[@typure81]

Hope you get soon! I have a 360 lumbar fusion at l5/S1. I’ve been good just sitting to king and bad posture causes pain. When I stretch I’m all better, so need to be consistent daily. I’m still in Physical Therapy as well.

[@queenkarma_4450]

I’ve also had this surgery,August 7,2023 360 lower lumbar it’s a hard road…and walking long distances is difficult at the moment…

[@peggymcdonnell1379]

I know that you commented on this a long time ago I think four years but I would love to know how you’re doing I have to have this surgery coming up soon and I want to be prepared and I want to find out how you made it through it. I pray that you did make it through it very well. Thanks for any information you’d like to send to me. Thank you.

[@typure81]

@@peggymcdonnell1379 One day at a time Peggy. You can and will get through it. Don’t try to move too fast just allow your body to heal. If I could change one thing I wouldn’t have went back to work in a warehouse lifting boxes so soon.

[@typure81]

@@queenkarma_4450 Prayers for you! Take it easy and stretch as much as possible. Not sure if you can yet because j had to wait 3-4 months before I started physical therapy. 🙏🏽

[@deborahgladdy9936]

I am one year out from a 3 level L3-L5 spinal fusion. As a Canadian retired Operating Room Registered Nurse, I knew exactly what I was in for. But, the recovery has been brutal. I’m told my spine is ‘frail’ from horrible arthritis. I suffered for 2 years while being diagnosed, was on too many pain medications. Now, I’m doing pretty good. Totally off all the pain meds 6 months post-op, thankfully. Be strong & follow through with the surgery, as eventually it is worth the struggle of the recovery. My nerve pain & leg weakness have resolved. Still searching for exercises to stay fit, as I’ve had to give up lifting weights, running & skiing. I have just turned 70. As a Canadian, this &100,000+ surgery cost me nothing. So grateful.

[@pauln420]

Glad to find this. L4-L5, and they say “Just walk”, but I find that my leg muscles are so tight from not doing anything - these stretches help!

[@silver6891]

Thank you so very much!! I have an l4/l5 fusion due to cauda equina syndrome 😔. Its been 3 years since surgery and I have gone from paralyzed in wheelchair to walking 1 to 2 miles a day. Many, many hours of PT to walk again. So ready for these exercises and to really strengthen my core!! Happy New Year!!!

[@drkristieennis]

Wow! What you have done is incredible!! Keep up the good work😊

[@karensimpson1919]

GOD Bless you

[@guruprasadnm363]

what were the symptoms you had for cauda equina syndrome?

[@lisahall8883]

Wonderful! Great effort!

[@LovetherOmanceMcr]

​@@drkristieennis1

[@chrisjohnston1781]

Thank you very much. I had an L 4-5 fusion on Feb. 21 and can't get to PT due to quarantine. Very grateful to you!

[@drkristieennis]

I’m so glad I can help!

[@revikalohagun3730]

Thank you for this very helpful video,i did my L5 on march now ive started doing long walks and so forth.how can i know that ive come to normal life lifting running etc?

[@bernadettesemple9301]

Than you L4/L5

[@kulasbb8356]

I had same surgery about 8 mths ago but. Still suffer from lower back pain from standing or walking to long curious how are you. Now after your surgery Would appreciate any feedback Thanks

[@cryptodawn6184]

I'm 2 months post L5S1 fusion and healing well. I'm a bit scared to be honest and have been sedentary (put lots of weight on) and using opioids. Lockdown means no physio ! So glad I watched your video. I'm subscribed and looking to to step in and try these moves 🇬🇧👏😁

[@ec3886]

You're a blessing out in the open. I just had my posterior cervical fusion c4-c6 one month ago and an alterior fusion c5-c6 a year ago, scared to death of ruining the progress I've made. I found this video by complete luck and feel confident in doing these. Thank you. And I hope everyone else reading this and going through the pains finds some relief!

[@drkristieennis]

You are welcome and I hope you continue to feel better!!

[@MrsDSully006]

I'm 6 yrs post surgery and need to get back on track and this video is just what I needed! Thank you!

[@bobbykellz1648]

Me too!

[@juggernaut6771]

Are you in a lot of pain? I AM three years post op, and I have a long spinal fusion

[@devorabriones381]

Wonderful video! I had fusion of L3, L4, and L5 just one month ago. I have been practicing the exercises shown to me by PT in the hospital, as well as walking twice a day for 15-20 minutes. I just saw my surgeon and he was very pleased. He essentially told my what NOT to do, but did not refer me to PT. I will be starting a new job in 4 weeks, and I want to be as fit and pain free as possible. I will practice these exercises you’ve shown (I’ve already been doing pelvic tilt and bridge position) every day. I’m certain they will help me get ready! By the way, I’m 67 years old and retired 18 months ago due to severe back pain and radiculopathy of the lower extremities. Now, just one month after surgery, there is no more radicular pain or sensory changes in my legs. The incisional pain is mild, and most of the discomfort seems to be coming from a weak core and hip muscles after being immobile. Yay! 😁

[@drkristieennis]

That’s great that you are feeling so much better! Keep up your good work:)

[@lobstermania4025]

Wow! How are you do8ng now? I gave the same surgery coming up in Sept.

[@annascooking2024]

It’s crazy to see people actually struggled after their spinal surgery. I had a fusion and after 3 years I feel amazing. I can lift normal and I have normal mobility

[@j.w.3345]

Thank you so much! I'm 2 months post L4-L5 fusion surgery. I got so used to not moving for two years because of the numbness and pain. I went from hiking every day, to hardly being able to climb the stairs. I'm a young at heart 62 year old and not ready to give up the great outdoors. I promise to take it slow!

[@drkristieennis]

That is so hard to go through! I hope that you will be back to hiking in the near future:)

[@roxannezenger691]

I am like you J, i am post 2 months and my fusion is L3-L5 with 2 added clamps on my spine due to Scoliosis curvature, I currently feel stuck and having pain so I hope these can help until I am allowed to go to PT.

[@jaimecotter8244]

Fused T-1 through L-3 due to scoliosis as a teenager. 30+ years later, I’m looking for exercises I can do to improve mobility and reduce pain. Thank you for this video!

[@noahhamilton9028]

Hey my girlfriend is a teenager who also has a full spinal fusion top to bottom, she is always in serious pain and has no movement I feel like I want to help so bad but have a serious lack of knowledge and don’t want to hurt anything. Maybe you have some tips for me?? I fear her life in coming years into adult hood please help

[@katepeterson7544]

@@noahhamilton9028how is she doing?

[@Benny_B0O0]

@@noahhamilton9028Her life is over. Spinal fusion is a death sentence and should never be a surgery done. It’s extremely experimental

[@dustbunnieboo]

Thank you for covering exercises for those of us with spinal fusions. I had extensive spinal fusions and Harrington rod attached for scoliosis in 1977. T2 to L4. The first few decades were no problem, but the last 5 years have been more challenging. I now must sit after only a few minutes standing. I need to do something to get my life back. Thanks again for your help.

[@lisahall8883]

Thank you! It’s nice to see videos suitable for fusions. I had one over 20 years ago so I definitely have limitations. This is a great place to start.

[@stephaniedelossantos1917]

Thank you! Spinal fusion 5 months ago, ready to get back to where I was!

[@paulsaladino3552]

I just had a laminectomy. 7 weeks ago. I will clear with doctor first but thank the timing is perfect...

[@vtwin03]

Very thankful for your video. I am a 71 year old post L-1-5, S-1-2 fusion patient and suffer lower back paid/spasms. These really have assisted me.

[@drkristieennis]

I’m so glad they have helped you!

[@YusufKhan-xc1vy]

This was an amazing video, thank you for providing these exercises. I've had surgery a few years back and was feeling some mid back pain. I immediately felt some relief after doing these stretches. Thanks!

[@drkristieennis]

So glad you are feeling some relief! You are welcome😊

[@christinejones6198]

Thank you so much for this video. I had titanium rods inserted with spinal fusion L3-S1 six months ago and am walking daily. I was doing hydrotherapy three days a week below the Covid lockdown so I need some stretches and core strengthening to do at home now. I am scared I’ll damage my spine again so this video is reassuring! Thank you so much!

[@drkristieennis]

You’re welcome!

[@hakimabdalla1977]

Hi Christine, Am gonna do the same operation in the next couple of weeks: do u have any insights or recommendations to do after the operation?

[@katepeterson7544]

How are you doing 4 years on? I’m due for L4-S1 in 6 months. Would love to hear how you are.

[@katepeterson7544]

@@hakimabdalla1977did you have your surgery?

[@mellievancamp377]

I had S1 L5 fusion and this video has helped so much! Thank you so much

[@meghanboyne459]

I am 16 and I had the surgery when I was 13,, I’ve wanted to get back into shape for the longest time. Everything I’ve done has always brought pain. This is the first video I’ve come across for spinal fusion and I can’t wait to try :)

[@drkristieennis]

I hope that this video helps and you are on your way back! Good luck and keep me posted:)

[@peacefulwarrior4078]

Always remember that that the muscles directly above and below the fusion will be doing double duty due to the spine being unable to move in the area of your fusion

[@drkristieennis]

This is definitely true! Other hip muscles also tend to kick in too.

[@babydoll1701]

kristie ennis I’m fused at s1-l4 i don’t feel the pelvic tilt as I think it’s because I’m fused by that area. Is there any way to help strengthen that area even if your fused at my position.

[@JS-fi7yo]

Thank you so much! This is very helpful. I've had a fused spine for 12 years now and walking is all I really do as an exercise bec I'm scared I might stress my spine or something if I do any other type. Very helpful!

[@johndaily9869]

Hello J S, How's your status after 12 years of spinal fusion? Are the implants still in your body? I'm only 9 months after surgery, feeling strange about the implants right now.

[@JS-fi7yo]

@@johndaily9869 i feel fine, always have to be careful. yes implants are still in my body and still feel pretty weird haha. I just don't mind it as much as I did before. You'll get used to it. Take care!

[@cynthiajohnson6320]

J S I am in the same boat. I am 3 months out from surgery and cannot do yoga anymore re doctor’s orders.

[@drkristieennis]

You’re welcome 😊

[@DomalainDiLorenzo]

@@cynthiajohnson6320 Me too same boat, my MD does not want me at all to do yoga and I understand why. Too many poses are dangerous for us, now and forever. I went to see four surgeon they all told me the same thing, 33% of all spinal fusion patients return for a second spinal surgery within TEN YEARS. Very scary! I had L4,L5,S1 fusion

[@Duchess-of-Camelot]

I'm in a bad place. 6 back surgeries in 3 years and still can't do much. I have constant back muscle pain. I've been diagnosed with "failed back surgery syndrome". I'm hoping different exercises will help and I'm grateful for your video. Thank you.

[@Benny_B0O0]

Spinal fusion is a complete scam. I pray for you. The surgery is completely inhumane and has no successful outcomes. These modern day doctors are money grubbing liars

[@ambervigil6228]

I haven't had a spinal fusion yet, but I plan on it since I have herniated discs. Thank you for the video!

[@rosiethurman7900]

Thank had a fusion from L2-S1 2 years ago and I have done PT 5 times since and I still can’t walk but a few steps before I start tipping over forward so I’m going to give this a try. I want my life back! Thank you for sharing this!

[@drkristieennis]

You’re welcome! I hope it really helps get you to where you want to be!

[@knittingnovice]

Great video!! Thank you so much. I will check with my doctor to make sure. This is so helpful.

[@tiffsaver]

Thanks for this, dear. I had spinal fusion recently, and I'm an old fart, so I apprecated you "going easy" on this important first step. Thanks again:)

[@drkristieennis]

You’re welcome! I’m guessing you are young at heart:)

[@drkristieennis]

You are welcome 🤗

[@cmulford11]

I would love a full follow along video for pilates after spinal fusion!

[@melissacavise6678]

melissa i had spinal fusion surgery over a year ago it is great seeing your video great please more videos you are a pleasant dr.

[@drkristieennis]

Thank you! I hope this one helps you out!

[@swissmiss221]

I have had 6 fusions and am fused from T6 to S1 and am 71. I also have a spinal cord stimulator and an intrathecal pain pump. This video is very helpful. I also hope you will do more related to the thoracic area. That part has completely changed my life. It’s very painful and by evening I can’t hold my upper back up. Thank you!

[@drkristieennis]

That is a lot for a body to go through! Well done on working on things! I have a mid back pain video out but it wasn’t designed for fusion purposes.

[@cbufffly]

I had a lower lumbar fusion three yrs ago .... after playing soccer for 25 yrs & competition tennis for 30. These exercises have accomplished a lot toward warming up before some of the other core exercises from my personal trainer. I love the standing ones as well!

[@drkristieennis]

I’m glad these help you out 😊

[@caseybirchwood423]

i soo needed this instruction a few years ago but it is still valuable Now as well... than you

[@ChamindaJ]

Great stretch instructions. This is a very good clear video. Great lighting as well.

[@drkristieennis]

Chaminda J. Thank you!

[@britttripgames]

This video is really helpful I've been struggling to find safe exorcizes that won't compromise my rods.

[@drkristieennis]

So glad I can help!

[@sorrea2141]

Thank you very much for this very instructive video. This will hopefully help/aid me in my recovery. Just had my 2nd fusion within 1 year. First one was L5-S1 after a broken back in feb 2020. Apparently i had this for close to 5 years. The procedure itself went well and as expected. After the 6 weeks rest to let the pins settle in the bones, i should have started with therapy. The day i had the appointment, my country locked down these practices cos of CV-19. So no therapy, and no guidance on how to get better again This created a double hernia between L5 and L3 within 2 months. So they extended the pins in oct 2020. Had a lot of pain in my hips. Felt like an extreme muscle strain and had ran the iron man. As if someone stuck large nails into the joints between my legs and hips. Do not know what that one is called in dutch let alone english. I couldn't find a position where i had the least amount of pain for longer than 5 minutes. They did prescribe me oxycodon for the pain, but i rarely used it. Even in the hospital i didn't used the morphine dispenser. Made me feel drowsy. Now the pain is manageable, and can even ride my motorcycle again. Not to much and for short distances. A 500lb bike is a B to get up again, should you fall. Greetings from the Netherlands.

[@drkristieennis]

Oh my goodness! You have gone through so much!! I hope that you are back to your normal self in the very near future 😊

[@vyanniesaldana1984]

Thank you so much! I called many times for PT and they never got back to me. I suffered a 60% Burst fracture on my L5 in October and had a Fusion Posterior Lumbar procedure done. I’ve been feeling super down physically, but this helped me so much!

[@drkristieennis]

You are welcome! I’m glad I can help out:) keep up your good work!

[@numnum6708]

Good helping video as recently suffered by L1 fracture

[@drkristieennis]

I’m sorry you had a fracture! Hope this video helps:)

[@angelassasyn10]

7 weeks post op laminectomy at 4 levels and fusion at L4-L5, these are great gentle exercise!!!!

[@lobstermania4025]

How are you doing now? Can you walk without pain?

[@Letprado]

Idea for a next video: what is a “neutral spine”. Pelvic tilts/pelvic clock exercises and the difference between a flat, an arched back and a neutral one. 😃 I guess it will help a lot of people!

[@drkristieennis]

Great suggestion!

[@carolinekrugel8535]

Please more for spinal fusion to help waist and tummy

[@SED1959]

I had Cornorloc spinal fusion surgery 8 weeks ago. On today on my left sacroiliac joint. And I’m starting PT on the 29th next Wednesday

[@HEKNOWSTHEPLANS]

New follower as had a thoracic laminectomy with fusion T5-T10 6 months ago and slacked on my stretching

[@gwynn2165]

I’ve been weak my whole life, last pic in sports so I just gave up on fitness since I was still underweight. I just moved into a very active area and I realized me being uncoordinated and weak makes it harder to relate with peers. I decided that I want to get in better shape for myself, and I’m not going to use my surgery as an excuse.

[@gregorydashnaw2522]

Excellent video! Thank you very much from me here in Denmark.

[@alteredsanctuary2024]

Fused from T8 to pelvis and these all feel great!

[@c13579]

Thank you. I gave up, thinking that I had to live with it as it is.

[@wdaub]

I really like this video. I had L4-L5-S1 fusion in 2019 and since then I've had issues with my Left SI Joint. My surgeon and pain doctor have me doing PT which I do at home by myself. This video helps me remember the little things I should be doing.

[@ammaralamdar9444]

Please doc, what is the appropriate time after surgery to do these useful exercises?

[@drkristieennis]

That definitely depends on the surgeon’s protocol and if you are in a brace so it would be a good idea to check with your surgeon.

[@SonofLion5]

I just started exercising again and need to strengthen my core after L5-S1 fusion. I am going to add these in to my anti-rotation exercises

[@martinsautismlife8426]

Had a spine fusion from T3-L5 this will definitely help me loosen up. Feel tightness every day

[@drkristieennis]

Hope these work for you!

[@maiali8437]

I need an exercise after scoliosis surgery

[@ghulamzakeriaahmadi4757]

These exercises are so good for making strong protection for spines

[@drkristieennis]

I’m glad that you like them!

[@donnacoons3754]

thank you so much for this video!!!

[@Nimue56]

I am so afraid I'm going to mess up my back, so I limit myself. Obviously not a wise thing to do. I had L3-S1 fusion and 2 rods done a month ago. My goal is to walk. That's all I care about. These are a little different than what my PT shows me. He did show me the leg lifts, but I have to sit in a chair. These aren't hurtful and I feel really good after doing them. So thank you Dr. Ennis for this video. This is really helping.

[@drkristieennis]

You’re welcome! Make sure you double check with your team as well to make sure these are safe for you as everyone is different:)

[@lindablumenthal6943]

Need more spinal fusion exercises, where can I find more?

[@drkristieennis]

I can work on adding another one but, unfortunately, I’m not familiar with other people’s fusion videos.

[@ronaldleonard743]

Great routine. I was going to just throw myself back to the hard core gym after 6 months but realized my body is totally not ready or flexible. Expecially important was the fact that the back needs to stay stabilized-my firt inclination was to try and get the bend back but now I know that is not only not right - but totally wrong. Thank you!!!

[@drkristieennis]

You’re welcome!

[@ImPeanuts]

Really like your videos! Had an L4/5 spinal fusion with 4 screws, 2 rods and a supporting cage 6 months ago. I need to strengthen my core so I don’t become an invalid at 57years old. I’ve lost a lot of weight and muscle and want to regain my strength. More exercises for other parts of the body that are safe for spinal fusions would be great!

[@drkristieennis]

Awesome that you are working on your strength! Well done:) I will work on making other videos:)

[@jamesfobear8654]

Just had the exact surgery and implants 4 weeks ago and I'm 56. I already feel better than before the surgery, but really agree about strengthening exercises for other areas of the body as well - I became quite out of shape due to back/sciatica pain. I'm walking about a mile and a half most days, but am terrified of trying much else. Good luck on your recovery

[@ImPeanuts]

@@jamesfobear8654 wow that’s great that you are walking so much. Unfortunately the surgery didn’t fix my underlying issues of osteoarthritis in my lumbar spine. I also have slight 10% scoliosis curve in my thoracic spine. I’ve been told over and over that core strength will help tremendously.

[@theodorekorbos2804]

Thank you Dr. Ennis ,,you answered my question ! Thank you again Teddy korbos !

[@drkristieennis]

You’re welcome 😊

[@rozieboss154]

This was super helpful right before the gym! Thoracic Spinal Fusion for Congenital Kyphosis. Love the tips on posture!

[@drkristieennis]

I’m glad this was helpful for you:) keep up your good work!

[@8378-i6m]

This is random but I'm also a thoratic spinal fusion for congenital kyphosis!

[@kingperogieandcharlie7385]

I had a spinal fusion I cant lay on my back it burned and pulls and I have nerve damage in my legs do you have standing exercise where we could hold on to something..you have some but we all need more thankyou

[@drkristieennis]

You’re welcome! This is another standing ab video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/aYvOd5RshJ1jeJI

[@melodylobach2510]

Just had a t4-l3 fusion 2 weeks ago. Super frustrated because I was very active before surgery. Trying to exercise is so painful. I hope this helps!

[@mrj335]

I had a discectomy. My lower back is weak. I will try your stretching. I don't have strength in my left leg, maybe due a damaging My coccyx. .Not sure. Thanks

[@drkristieennis]

Best of luck!

[@BenSussmanpro]

Thank you so much for demonstrating these exercises. 1 question though: are these exercises also good for cervical fusion (ACDF) recovery? Thanks again!

[@drkristieennis]

You’re welcome! These are specific to low back. I need to work on a cervical video:)

[@judeburdge6575]

Thank you. I had a lower lumbar level 4-5 fusion with bone spur and cyst removal as well as stenosis removed that was severely choking off my nerve bundle. I was able to start therapy early one month after and these are the exact exercises they did to me twice a week. I had to stop because of virus march 1st where they were starting harder exercises. I have been trying the recumbent bike with wide seat and that helps. Walking is hard still and I get locked up in my hip .. It is so necessary to stretch and always roll to the side getting up. Definitely takes time. One year will be December 3rd. Hoping to get balance back stable to go up and down stairs without using just one leg at a time

[@drkristieennis]

Wow! You have put in so much hard work!! I hope that you continue to build and recover:)

[@judeburdge6575]

kristie ennis working on it. Core is key

[@drkristieennis]

Jude Burdge so true!

[@YouTubeQuora]

After how long rest we can start these exercise?? I had spine surgery and added implants to support.. i am heavy too Please answer I had surgery 2 months back

[@jnicophene]

This is great! Thanks! I’ve feel like I’ve developed a more severe forward head posture and kyphosis after my fusion surgery years ago. Any more workouts to improve or perfect posture even with the rods intact?

[@drkristieennis]

See if these help:) Improve Your Posture With Just 3 Exercises! ( NO MORE ROUNDED SHOULDERS) kzbin.info/www/bejne/lXeqeYV7i76Al9k kzbin.info/www/bejne/gZ3QoZaLfat1o7M

[@jnicophene]

@@drkristieennis Thanks! I'm just seeing thsi reply! I appreciate it Kristie! :)

[@drkristieennis]

Jean-Paul Nicophene you’re welcome 😊

[@Addiewag72499]

I have as well and I've asked my neurologist but she just says " Posture Posture Posture" 🤷

[@genevawilkerson4245]

Good morning I think I’ve watched some of your other videos that were super helpful about how to fix the sciatic pain which I had before surgery and when I did your four or five exercises, my pain was completely gone, but now I’ve had minimally, invasive lumbar micro discectomy on L4 and L5 and they told me don’t do any core exercises. I want to do some chair exercises without any twisting. Can you link me to a video with that?

[@carolcallaway6001]

I had L4&L5 5 months ago, I don’t know if yoga is something I can do with the rods and screws in my lower back. So, is yoga good for a person like me (I also have knee problems too) good for my back with rods? Thank you Carol

[@HappyLife-vh2ey]

Great video i thank u. Can I do 5:12 backwards to strengthen my lower back ?

[@debbevasquez9945]

My surgeon told me not to bring my legs up to close to my chest, that it could pull touch on the low back and joint. So knees no higher than waist, as in the setting position.

[@newts1964]

should you exercise ,stretch and strengthen when sore for days on end

[@davidmarcus9871]

Yes more like this

[@vidurasenadeera3759]

Thanks a lot doctor 🙏

[@drkristieennis]

You’re welcome!

[@CameronEventing]

Do you have any particular exercise recommendations for cervical fusion patients? Great video will be doing it

[@drkristieennis]

Great question! I will have to make a video:) what level is your fusion? Certainly there are similar guidelines as far as movement goes. The exercises with the band should help. I do generally have people avoid sit-ups and crunches.

[@prettywings1088]

kristie ennis Hi can you do video for cervical fusion for level c4-c7?

[@drkristieennis]

I will put it on my list!

[@hrtmjik1119]

Great video for spinal fusion, some are a little more difficult but great video

[@drkristieennis]

Thank you! Definitely stick with the ones that feel good:)

[@andrealamb607]

I can relate that my life has changed tremendously since I’ve had two lumbar spinal surgeries, L4, L5, L3, and L2 and L1. My back aches all the time and I really don’t know what to do about it. I’m so tired of taking pain pills that released it for a little bit but yet the pain returns. I have no social life or activities and that really hurts me because I used to be so active. My problem became known when I was diagnosed with breast cancer stage 3C where they had to do a mastectomy and then they use my stomach tissues to make another breast . I want to be more active. I feel like I am 90 years old. I am 64 though I know that I will have some pains but the pain that I have on a daily base is enough to make me cry.

[@drkristieennis]

I’m so sorry:( if you need some personalized help, send me an email and we might be able to set up a zoom appointment. [e-mail]

[@Benny_B0O0]

They did a spinal fusion to me when I was 17. I had very mild scoliosis and the surgery was unnecessary. It has completely ruined my life and changed who I am. I pray for you. I’m 20 now and have to be cared for. Spinal fusion is a death sentence, these modern day doctors are scamming liars

[@tessmanuelsontag7878]

I’m glad found your channel. I have spinal fusion surgery 9 months ago and still painful, burning and too much muscle spasm and nerve pain . I was looking for the best exercise in you tube and thank you for you videos. I will try them but can I do it every doc or 3 times a week? Thank you

[@drkristieennis]

You’re welcome! I typically start my patients out with 2-3 non consecutive days a week.

[@daleloope6521]

Thank you! I can’t wait to get cleared to start stretching and exercise

[@drkristieennis]

You’re welcome! It always feels good to get moving again:)

[@lin80085]

Thanks for the video. Are you a medical doctor (MD or DO)? If not, do you practice with a physician?

[@drkristieennis]

You are welcome! I am not. I have my doctorate in physical therapy.

[@lin80085]

@@drkristieennis Thanks for the reply. The reason I asked is because I have chronic lower back pain on the left side. I had a spinal fusion for scoliosis as a kid and have pain since. Would someone like me be able to see a physical therapist, or would my history require me to see a physician first?

[@drkristieennis]

@@lin80085 as long as you have direct access where you are, a physical therapist would be a good thing:)

[@petertatiner7128]

Are there exercises for upper back post surgery?

[@drkristieennis]

Was your fusion lumbar spine or higher?

[@toxictoni84]

Ty for this I had fusion done L-5 in September 2020 .

[@drkristieennis]

You’re welcome! I hope these work for you!

[@amitbhar4172]

Any exercise for fused left hip joint. Thanks

[@drkristieennis]

I have a video for hip arthritis kzbin.info/www/bejne/mInGlnmsr8yGadE

[@cynthiajohnson6320]

I need more of these!

[@drkristieennis]

Working on it:)

[@singlemommy7011]

What's goods for lumber spondylosis

[@drkristieennis]

I have used these exercises for patients with spondylosis too. It’s always a good idea to check with your doctor if you’re not sure on something as everyone is different.

[@annemisia6002]

Had Lumber decompression and fusion between L3-S1 on 15 September this year. Unfortunately i got AKI. Had four rounds of dialysis making me stay in hospital for a month. I'm i ready for any if the exercises demonstrated here?

[@mikelp8265]

HI great advice ok this is what I had , Laminectomy With 2 tier fusion 6 screws and 2 rods on L2-L3 , L3-L4 its been 90 days since my operations and, I up to 30 lifting pounds, (YEA) I have 6 months wearing the bone stimulator to go. My question what's you opinion on Backackpcking ,? I live not for fro the appalichain /trail , MY home away from home, My total pack weight is 28 pounds. (water, food, tent, sleeping , stove etc. thanks

[@chrissyzimmer2061]

Hi Dr. Ennis, for clarification if you have had a successful spinal lumbar fusion, are you still advised not to flex? At 15 I shattered my Lumbar spine. I’ve had multiple spinal surgeries and have traveled the country and Europe to seek help. I have lived with severe, debilitating pain for the past 11 years since my initial injury. We’ve done 13 rounds of injections, epidurals, caudal epidurals, RFAs, other ablation, research trials, etc. to no avail. I had my first surgery at 16 (we tried multiple modalities pre-surgery to avoid at all costs). However, my surgery was unsuccessful and I never had a union (or fusion). Because of this, 5 years later, all hardware failed, broke, backed out of bone, penetrated the skin and I was an emergency case at Mayo Clinic with a much more severe surgery than what was planned. With 17 screws, 4 rods, 2 PEEK cages to secure the inter body fusions, and metal into my hips and SI joints, I still have severe, life-limiting pain daily and take 12-15 meds depending on the day, just to “look normal.” Ive seen a lot of PTs in my life and I’ve heard mixed things on this topic specifically. Whatever you reply will not be taken as specific medical advice, however I love your videos and I am curious to know your opinion. I am 3 1/2 years post surgery and finally have a fusion. But I live in horrible pain and feel as if I never had surgery. I have found that yoga techniques do help (modified of course)! When you say that you don’t recommend any type of flexion or twisting via stretches and working out, are you specifically referring to pre-fusion, post fusion, or just something to be accepted broadly for all spinal fusion patients going forward in throughout their life? I have heard all the above answers and I am just wondering about your professional opinion. Thank you so much for this video and any other video on spine pain/injuries. So helpful!! Thank you!

[@drkristieennis]

You have gone through so much! Way to keep fighting! I honestly don’t have a black and white answer for this. Most surgeons don’t feel flexion is great post surgery but you do have to live! Because every surgeon and every technique is different, and things change all the time. I typically ask the surgeon what they would prefer their patients to do. Have you spoken to your surgical team recently? I would be happy to have a conversation with you at some point too:)

[@heathervisser291]

When are these ok to do. I have been told no bending lifting or twisting until 1st visit with surgeon at 6weeks after xray

[@tomhuyck734]

Like Kristine, most spinal rehab specialists promote abdomen/core exercises, but never anything to actually strengthen the oblique and thoracolumbar muscles. Which constitute the main framework supporting the lumbar spine. I wish they would learn more about MedX-style lumbar resistance machines. I have benefitted hugely from this and, no, I don't own stock or profit from MedX in any way. Just proceed carefully.

[@drewmoskal9878]

i'm only 18 and was in a motorcycle accident 5 months ago. reading these comments gives me hope.

[@drkristieennis]

I truly hope you recover quickly and feel better very soon!

[@margaretarmijo1062]

I have rods that are connected to my pelvis up to the t-10. I find it hard to find an exercise I can do with the rods screwed into pelvis. 😢

[@robinh.524]

My back hs been a nightmare since having my daughter in 1990. Not much help until I reached age 65. Then hd a rad abd hysterectomy for cancer in 2022, l4-l5 fusion in 2023. Its been very slow going.

[@everalphh]

thank you, i recently had a spinal fusion back in june 2021 i had a 70 degree curve. due to surgery i lost quite a bit of weight i’ve now lost all confidence so i’ve been trying to go gym however i can’t do any of the exercises as my back feels like it won’t allow me i’m going to try do these everyday to try regain some strength before doing proper workouts hopefully theses will help me, if u have any advice i would appreciate it.

[@user-tp4ru9dh6r]

Male 77 . Spinal Fusion of S1 to the T12. I need core / back strength! Also ,what exercises not to do! Mk

[@FromTheHood2TheWoods]

Thank you!

[@andreak4739]

Can you make some for after si joint fusion

[@chinook5819]

Thank you.... Is there a printout that I can use? Thanks again

[@drkristieennis]

I don’t have a printout right now, but if I get some spare time, I can make one:) are you looking for a description of the exercises?

[@DomalainDiLorenzo]

@@drkristieennis yes, having a print-out would help me greatly as well.

[@yvonneb-t3d]

Want to avoid surgery with Spondylosisthes, will give this a try.