4 Deadlift Modifications for Lower Back Pain

By dpope2020

March 10, 2023

back pain, back pain exercise, bulging disc, Clean, corrective exercise, Crossfit, deadlift, deadlift back pain, disc bulge, disc bulge treatment, disc herniations, disc pathology, DPT student, education, fitness pain free, herniated disc, herniated disc exercise, Jerk, lower back pain, lumbar radiculopathy, mobility, modifications for deadlift, Olympic Lifting, physical therapist, physical therapy, physiotherapist, physiotherapy, powerlifting, sciatica, slipped disc, snatch, squat

4 Deadlift Modifications for Lower Back Pain:

Welcome coaches and clinicians!

In today's episode we go over 4 Deadlift Modifications for Lower Back Pain:

In today's video, we'll be discussing the importance of modifying the deadlift for clients and patients with lower back pain. As physical therapists, you know that the deadlift is a fundamental exercise for developing strength and power in the lower body. However, for clients with lower back pain, performing the deadlift can be a challenge and painful. This is where modifying the exercise becomes crucial.

If we can find the right modification for our patient then we can simultaneously continue working toward our patient's training goals while rehabilitating them at the same time. 

Some of the modifications you may consider include:

  1. Adjusting the load: For clients with lower back pain, reducing the load on the barbell may be necessary. This will allow them to focus on their form and technique without exacerbating their symptoms.  We can do this through increasing the repetition range or slowing down the movement
  2. Using alternative equipment: If the barbell deadlift is too challenging, consider using alternative equipment such as kettlebells, dumbbells, or a trap bar.  This allows the knees to track forward and take some stress off the spine.
  3. Elevate the starting position: Elevating the start position reduces stress on the spine by reducing the moment arm at the hip and reducing lumbar flexion in the spine.  
  4. Switch to hip thrusts: If all else fails the good old hip thrust is usually tolerated very well and works a very similar set of muscles compared to the conventional deadlift.

Check the video below to see what I'm talking about:

Ultimately, modifying the deadlift for clients with lower back pain is essential to help them achieve their fitness goals safely and effectively. As physical therapists, it is our responsibility to ensure that our clients are performing exercises that are appropriate for their unique needs and limitations. By modifying the deadlift, we can help our clients build strength and power while simultaneously rehabilitating at the same time

In conclusion, modifying the deadlift for clients with lower back pain is a crucial aspect of effective rehabilitation and training. By assessing each client's individual needs and limitations, we can develop a customized modification plan that meets their unique needs. With the right modifications in place, clients can safely and effectively build strength and power, without exacerbating their symptoms. So, let's get to work and help our clients achieve their fitness goals!

Deadlift on!

- Dan Pope DPT, OCS, CSCS

Show Notes / Relevant Articles:

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Thank you!

Dan Pope DPT, OCS, CSCS

References: