The purpose of this phase is to stretch tendons, ligaments, and muscles to decrease pain and prepare the soft tissues for Phase II.
The purpose of this phase is to stretch the disc and surrounding tissue at a higher degree to achieve a negative intradiscal pressure (-150 mm/Hg). This promotes increased blood flow, increased synovial fluid exchange, and increased lymphatic return to allow the disc to re-hydrate. Postural exercises are usually given in this phase.
The purpose of this phase is to strengthen the disc and surrounding tissues. This is achieved by using a cyclic pull pattern that mimics normal disc pressure changes. This improves tissue oxygenation and tensile strength to stabilize the spine. Core Strengthening exercises are usually given in this phase.
The purpose of this phase is to develop a plan specific to the patients’ needs to maintain optimum biomechanics of the spine