Can Lumbar Disc Herniation Patients Perform the Little Swallow Exercise?

Update Date: 2025-02-13 Source: Network

Lumbar Disc Herniation and "Little Swallow Flying" Exercise

Whether patients with lumbar disc herniation can perform the "Little Swallow Flying" exercise depends on the severity of their condition. For early-stage and mild cases, it may have auxiliary benefits, but moderate to severe patients or those with worsening symptoms should avoid it. It is recommended to choose suitable rehabilitation exercises under the guidance of a professional doctor or rehabilitation therapist to improve symptoms and avoid unnecessary injuries.

1. Causes and Symptoms of Lumbar Disc Herniation

Lumbar disc herniation is commonly caused by prolonged poor sitting posture, excessive weight-bearing, trauma, or degenerative diseases. Patients often experience low back pain, numbness in the lower limbs, muscle weakness, and in severe cases, it may affect walking and daily life. This is due to rupture of the annulus fibrosus of the intervertebral disc, causing the nucleus pulposus to herniate and compress the nerve. Moderate to severe patients or those during acute exacerbations should avoid blind exercise to prevent symptom worsening.

2. The Role and Scope of Application of "Little Swallow Flying"

"Little Swallow Flying" is a rehabilitation exercise targeting back muscle functional training, mainly improving spinal stability and strength by tightening the lower back muscles. For patients with early-stage lumbar disc herniation or those with stable conditions, mild symptoms, and no obvious inflammation or nerve compression, appropriately and regularly performing "Little Swallow Flying" may help enhance local muscle strength and relieve fatigue. However, improper movements or excessive force may increase the burden on the intervertebral disc.

3. How to Choose Safe Exercise Methods

Safe and effective exercise methods vary from person to person. The following principles are recommended:

Mild Cases: If the condition is stable and there is no pain, attempt "Little Swallow Flying" daily with slow and small movements. Perform 3-5 sets each time, maintaining each for 5-10 seconds, gradually increasing intensity, and combining with other exercises such as plank supports and cat-cow stretches.

Moderate to Severe Cases: Avoid "Little Swallow Flying", especially when symptoms worsen or there is obvious nerve compression. Under the guidance of a doctor, choose gentler exercises such as swimming, lumbar and back muscle massage, or traction in bed.

Pain or Recurrence Period: Suspend all active exercises to avoid secondary injury to the spine and focus on medications, physiotherapy such as hot compresses, electrical stimulation, and appropriate rest.

Whether patients with lumbar disc herniation can practice "Little Swallow Flying" requires a comprehensive assessment based on their actual condition. Mild cases can try protective exercises to improve the problem, while moderate to severe cases or those in the acute phase should be more cautious and prioritize rehabilitation methods with minimal spinal pressure. Communicating with a doctor or rehabilitation therapist before engaging in any exercise is an important prerequisite for ensuring safety and effectiveness.