Exercises To Eliminate Pathokinematics - Part VII

Last week we discussed the Lumbar Hip Disassociation Exercise sequence.  This is a great starting point to start providing athletes with the ability to discern the difference between hip motion, lumbar motion and femoral motion.  In addition to this series and with the advent of the #Theraband #CLX, we are now able to apply this same training methodology with the CLX.  This creates an even more challenging sequences in SL Stance.  With the incorporation of the CLX, this allows us to create resistance in internal rotation and valgus stresses which further increases EMG activity in the gluteus medius in the stance leg. 

These same exercises are a key component of the ACL Play It Safe Program.  One key component of doing these exercises is the "CLX Spiral Technique" that is done with the CLX band. 

In this technique, open the last loop of the CLX band and place this around the upper thigh of the athlete so that the next loop is located between the legs.  Take the CLX and wrap it from inside to outside (wrap from posterior thigh to lateral thigh to inner).  Complete two complete spirals so that one is located at mid-thigh and the second is just below the knee.  Place the contralateral foot in the CLX loops near the end so there is enough tension that the stance leg is being pulled into a valgus and internally rotated position.  The key wit these exercises is to maintain neutral position of the stance limb and resist the CLX pulling into internal rotation and valgus.

CLX Lumbar Disassociation - Level I - The following video provides instruction in the Level I CLX exercise.

CLX Lumbar Disassociation - Level II - The following video provides instruction in the Level II CLX exercise.

Dr. Nessler is a practicing physical therapist with over 17 years sports medicine clinical experience and a nationally recognized expert in the area of athletic movement assessment.  He is the developer of an athletic biomechanical analysis and author of a college textbook on this subject.  He serves as the National Director of Sports Medicine for Physiotherapy Associates, is Chairman of Medical Services for the International Obstacle Racing Federation and associate editor of the International Journal of Athletic Therapy and Training.