CST with cervical stenosis?

[JClarke]

Question: are there are any clubbell exercises that I should avoid?

(I have cervical stenosis, which can cause neck spasm if aggrated.) I was trying a forward circle the other day, and found it to be not-so-great for my neck.

Anything else I should be doing/not doing?

Thanks,

--Janet

[Scott Sonnon]

Janet,
From what I understand of the condition, pain locality manifests in a highly individualistic manner and episodes are unpredictable. I don't know, honestly. You should consult your medical doctor who should advise you on movements which would not aggravate the condition.
It seems to me that since the only nonoperative treatment you could give would be to aid in the (smooth and slow) decompression of the cervical vertebra through range of motion exercises such as Warrior Wellness.
Bottom line: we wouldn't be able to answer you over the internet, especially with the monitoring required for the potential Myelopathy.

[bob_stra]

Question: are there are any Clubbell® exercises that I should avoid?

--Janet

I'm guessing here -

Any exercises that causes you to slump?
Any exercises that cause a Valsalva maneuver like effect? (breath holding)
Any exercises that fixes your neck in place while exerting pressure downwards (ie: overhead press)

Honestly, I *don't know* either. But those come to mind.

What's your doctor say on the topic?

[JClarke]

Dear Coach Sonnon, Bob:

First off, thanks for the replies. (And, of course, I realize that this isn't specifically a medical forum, and the responsibility lies with me to clear any exercises with my Dr. before trying!)

So far, the rehab Dr. I've talked with has said to avoid anything that requires extending my arms past parallel with the floor (hence the problem with the forward circle.) But that still leaves several motions available with clubbells, I think: cleaning to order, for instance. In the past, I *have* been able to do above the head exercises (like military presses), but that may be no longer feasible.

Obviously, I'm looking into rehab options, so I believe the next step is to look into such things as Warrior Wellness (I'm also researching Yoga, minus any movements that hyper extend the neck...

Thanks,

--Janet

[Scott Sonnon]

Janet,
If your doctor permits movements no higher than perpendicular to your torso, then Basic Arm Swing (no greater than shoulder height), Cleans to Order, Pendulums (cast low - no higher than shoulder height) Standing or with Lunges and Side-steps, and Hydras (see John Myers article in the current issue of Circular Strength Training Magazine). Take your CT4CS book with you to your doctor to confirm this with him/her before proceeding. Above all, use common sense while observing your doctor's guidance. Keep us advised of your progress.