John Mayer, DC, PhD and collaborators publish manuscript on exercises for managing back pain in persons with lower limb amputation

John M. Mayer, DC, PhD and collaborators recently published a manuscript in the Technology & Innovation Journal:

Highsmith MJ, Farrokhi S, Mayer JM. Technical note: What exercises are appropriate for managing back pain in persons with lower limb amputation? Technology & Innovation. 2025:1-7. doi: 10.1080/19498241.2024.2420587

The manuscript is found here:

https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/19498241.2024.2420587

Abstract

Individuals with lower extremity amputation (LLA) have high rates of low back pain (LBP) and related disability. The purpose of this technical note is to discuss considerations and provide initial recommendations about what exercises may be appropriate for management of LBP in persons with LLA. Five commonly prescribed motor control and strengthening exercises (cat-camel, curl-up, bird dog, side bridge, and Roman chair extensor exercise) were examined for use in the LLA population. Each exercise seemed to be safe and appropriate for use in persons with LLA yet required additional considerations for use in this population. For example, some of the exercises, such as the bird dog, pose challenges to balance. Thus, more detailed up-front instruction, closer monitoring, and adequate support are recommended to facilitate usefulness and success. This technical note provides initial guidance for clinical decision-making about implementation of commonly prescribed exercises in the general non-amputee patient population with the LLA population. While future research is needed, implementation of appropriate exercise interventions has the potential to decrease disability, hasten recovery, and improve resiliency in persons with LLA suffering from LBP.