If a client has spinal stenosis, which exercise should be avoided?

When working with clients who have spinal stenosis, it’s essential to carefully choose exercises that promote spinal alignment and avoid those that may exacerbate their condition. Breaststroke, as a choice, involves extension of the spine, which could place significant stress on the vertebral foramen, potentially aggravating symptoms associated with spinal stenosis.

Spinal stenosis often leads to a narrowing of the spinal canal, which may cause pressure on the spinal cord and nerves. Therefore, movements that require spinal extension can worsen discomfort or lead to increased nerve symptoms.

On the other hand, the other exercise options, such as Footwork on the reformer, Curl-ups, and Side-lying leg lifts, can be modified or performed with more controlled spinal positioning and support. They typically allow for flexion or stabilization instead of direct extension, making them generally safer for clients with spinal stenosis when performed with care.