[Sports in functional rehabilitation of the lumbar spine]

Having analyzed the biomechanics of the spine, especially of the lumbar spine, the authors describe postural lumbalgia, a very topical problem As a matter of fact, standing is not always actively maintained by the alpha-tonic system but by capsulo-ligamentous resistance. For the latter type of pathologic or "passive" orthostatic position, postural gymnastics according to Mézière's technique after thorough objective examination of the patient is the ideal treatment. But sports after postural reeducation are a valid means for the maintenance of muscular tonicity and trophism. The sports to be recommended should be non competitive and non traumatic such as walking, swimming, rowing, and other activities involving the muscles of the trunk and all four limbs.