What is functional lumbar instability?

Functional lumbar instability (FLI) is a term used to describe a condition where there is an excessive motion or lack of control in the lumbar spine during functional activities such as walking, standing, or bending.

It is a complex and often poorly understood condition that may be caused by a combination of factors including muscular weakness, imbalances, and inadequate coordination, as well as anatomical abnormalities, injuries, or degenerative changes in the spine.

People with FLI may experience low back pain, stiffness, and decreased function, especially during physical activities. They may also have difficulty maintaining a stable posture or controlling the movement of their spine. The symptoms of FLI can be exacerbated by activities that require increased or sustained spinal loading, such as lifting, bending, or twisting.

The diagnosis of FLI is often challenging, as there is no definitive test or imaging finding that can confirm the condition. It is typically diagnosed based on a combination of clinical signs and symptoms, as well as a thorough physical examination that includes testing of spinal stability and control. Treatment of FLI may involve a combination of exercises to improve spinal stability, manual therapy, and muscular strength, as well as education on proper lifting techniques and ergonomic modifications to reduce spinal loading. In some cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to address underlying structural abnormalities that are contributing to the instability.

If you think you might be dealing with functional lumbar instability, book a free consult today.