Core strength examination and exercise for spondylolysis

These figures demonstrate how the author instructs patients to control their core abdominal muscles. It is a variation of a Williams' flexion exercise, and it can be used to help the patient relieve discomfort. The figure shows the patient in a supine position but beginners may flex both knees, using several pillows to support their lower extremity.
(A) The examiner places a hand on the LS spine just above the buttocks, which roughly corresponds to L3-L4.
(B) The examiner's hand is at the center of the patient's LS spine.
(C-D) A demonstration of how the author instructs the patient to perform the stretch. Tell the patient to "press my hand against the table using only your back." The examiner can place their other hand on the lower abdominal area to assist them with proper technique.