Back Exercises for Spondylitis of the Spine

According to Medline Plus, spondylitis is a disease characterized by swelling and inflammation between the bones of the spine and hips, resulting in symptoms such as progressive localized pain in the region, fatigue and a reduction in mobility in the region. While spondylitis can be treated with medication or surgery, attempting to first improve symptoms through a program of back exercise is a good idea, as you can avoid the cost and side effects associated with other forms of treatment.

Reverse Leg Raises

• Reverse leg raises can strengthen and stretch the muscles of the lower back, possibly alleviating some of the pain from spondylitis. To perform reverse leg raises, lie supine on the ground with your legs straight behind you. Initiate the movement by bracing at the abs and raising one of your back legs off the ground as high as possible without bending it or otherwise contorting your body. You should feel a fairly strong stretch/contraction in your lower back. Hold at the peak position for one or two seconds, then lower the leg slowly and under control. Alternate sides, repeating as many times as you are able, aiming for a goal of two or three sets 20 to 30 reps.

Pelvic Bridge

• A pelvic bridge can strengthen the surrounding musculature of the back as well as exercise the lower back itself, helping with the symptoms of spondylitis. To perform this movement, lie on your back with your knees bent at a 45-degree angle and your feet flat on the floor. Initiate the movement by bracing your abs and pushing "through" the ground with your heels, elevating your hips and pelvis until your legs and upper body form a straight line. Reverse slowly and under control, repeating for a total of two or three sets of 15 to 20 reps. Be careful to stop the movement before your back arches excessively, as the point of the movement is to strengthen the natural position of the back.

Back Extensions

• Back extensions are the lower back's equivalent of a sit-up, so they should be a staple in any back-strengthening regimen for spondylitis. To perform a back extension, lie facedown on a table or other elevated surface with your upper body hanging freely over the edge. Perform what amounts to a reverse situp by contracting the muscles of your lower back to raise your upper body so that it is even with your legs. Reverse slowly, repeating for two or three sets of 20 to 30 reps.