Lumbar Extension machine

The MedX Medical Lumbar Extension machine is designed to isolate and strengthen the muscle groups that support the lumbar spine by utilizing a unique restraint system that stabilizes the pelvis and restricts movement of the thighs and legs. The Lumbar Extension machine supports Isometric Testing by utilizing an integrated load cell that is able to accurately measure isometric torque. In addition, the Lumbar Extension machine supports Dynamic Exercise activities through the use of a specialized cam and weight stack that can accommodate up to 391 levels of resistance that can be adjusted in increments of one (1) foot-pound. The Lumbar Extension machine also includes a potentiometer that accurately measures the full Range of Motion (ROM) of the lumbar spine from 0 degrees at maximum extension to 72 degrees at maximum flexion.

Lumbar Extension Restraint System

The restraint system of the MedX Medical Lumbar Extension machine is comprised of four (4) components, including:

• Pelvic Restraint
• Thigh Restraint/Lap Belt
• Femur Restraint
• Foot Restraint/Footboard

The pelvic restraint is designed to prevent the pelvis from rotating or moving back into the direction of extension. By restricting the movement of the pelvis, the Lumbar Extension machine is able to eliminate forces produced by the muscle groups in the hips and the thighs, thereby isolating the muscles that support the lumbar spine. The pelvic restraint also serves as an indicator that the user is properly restrained within the Lumbar Extension machine, as the restraint should not move when the patient is sitting in the machine.

The thigh restraint is a thick and heavy lap belt that is secured about the user’s thighs and is secured using the thigh restraint adjustment until the thigh muscles are completely restrained. This restraint prevents upward movement of the thighs and pelvis while the user is secured in the machine.

The femur restraint mechanism is positioned above the lower thighs and is designed to limit upward movement of the knees while the user is restrained. The femur restraint also prevents the user from using the legs to exert force on the back pad during an isometric test.

The foot restraint secures the legs and, in particular, the feet to the footboard thereby restraining the legs from any superfluous movement. The foot restraint also prevents the user from using the legs to exert force on the back pad during an isometric test.

Isometric Testing

Isometric Testing is performed using the MedX Medical Lumbar Extension machine at up to seven (7) positions through a 72 degree range of motion (ROM) in 12 degree increments, including 0, 12, 24, 36, 48, 60, and 72 degrees. At each test point, the user is asked to exert force against the upper back pad of the machine, which is connected to the movement arm and load cell, for approximately 3 to 5 seconds. During this exertion, the MedX Rehab software visually displays the force exerted by the user on the display screen. At the conclusion of the exertion period, the force reading is automatically saved and the user is moved to the next test point. This process is repeated until the user has been evaluated at all test points within their range of motion (ROM). The resultant data is then utilized by clinicians to evaluate the strength of the muscle groups that support the user’s lumbar spine.

Dynamic Exercise

In order to increase strength of the lumbar extensor muscles, Dynamic Exercise sessions are used to engage the user in exercise repetitions until the isolated muscle groups are exercised to exhaustion. In accordance with default MedX standards and protocols, users will exercise with a resistance weight that represents approximately 50% of their peak torque reading obtained from their most recent Isometric Test. The user will then perform between eight (8) and twelve (12) exercise reps starting from their maximum flexion position, extending through their maximum extension position, and returning back to their maximum flexion position in order to complete a single repetition. If the user is unable to complete at least 8 repetitions, then the exercise resistance is reduced. Conversely, if the user is able to complete more than 12 repetitions, then the exercise resistance is increased.

Exercise Frequency

Due to its unique ability to isolate and strengthen the muscle groups that support the Lumbar Spine, the MedX Medical Lumbar Extension machine requires no more than three (3) Dynamic Exercise sessions per week with a session duration of no more than 10 to 15 minutes including machine setup, configuring the machine for use, and restraining the user within the machine. In fact, numerous studies have shown that the Lumbar Extension machine is able to increase strength in the lumbar extensor muscle groups with only one (1) session per week.

Contact us today to find your nearest MedX Rehab facility and schedule an appointment.