Introduction
The importance of the appropriate exercise cannot be stressed enough.  Your therapist will teach you the exercise program that is right for you.  It is also important to understand the activities that can cause further damage and increase one’s risk of fractures.

Standing 
• Avoid bending over to pick up even light items
• Avoid coughing in a bent position
• Never stoop and twist
• Use caution with vacuuming and mopping
• Have grandchildren handed to you or crawl up to you
• Use caution in assisting a family member out of a chair
• Avoid countertop work that requires stooping over

Bed Mobility
• Log roll while in bed to avoid twisting
• Wear “slick” garments that don’t stick to the bedding
• Avoid pulling yourself to a sitting position while lying flat
• Never sleep in a recliner in bent position
• Avoid prolonged bedrest-this promotes further bone loss

Sitting
• Perch on edge of chair instead of slouching
• Place a lumbar cushion behind back to avoid slouching
• Avoid coughing or sneezing in a sitting position
• Do not stoop while sitting

Exercise
• No sit-ups or crunches
• No standing or sitting toe touches
• No twisting
• Avoid twisting with reciprocal arm bicycles
• Avoid bending (flexing) type gym exercise machines
• Avoid “ Williams Flexion” type back exercises
• Knee toward chest stretches are OK if head remains flat

FAQ's
Frequently Asked Questions

Contact us
Rehabilitation Services
Fairview Red Wing Medical Center
701 Fairview Blvd.
PO Box 95
Red Wing, MN 55066
651-267-5450