What is Core Stability ?

One of the functions of our spinal column is to provide stability for our trunk, so that the trunk can be a solid base for our arm and leg movements. The lumbar spine, however, is not a particularly stable structure by itself and, therefore, needs the surrounding muscles.

Core stablity can be thought of as using the primary muscles of the trunk to help stabilize the spine, just like guy wires help stabilize a radio tower.

Benefits of Core Stability

A mechanical structure is only as strong as its weakest link. Weak or impaired core muscles can therefore result in spinal instability, which can in turn lead to pain, injury, lack of co-ordination and lack of balance.

Strengthening muscles to increase core stability can:

• improve posture
• improve balance
• provide a stable base for strong arms and legs to move from and thus function more effectively
• improve co-ordination
• relieve back pain
• improve athletic performance

Which muscles contribute to core stability ?

• the abdominal muscles
• the diaphragm
• muscles of the pelvic floor
• muscles of the hip

The function of these muscles can be altered by:

• pregnancy
• a history of injury to the spine
• a sedentary lifestyle
• repetitive asymmetrical movements (e.g. on the job or sports related)

Prescribed exercises will be:

• specific and individualized, based on an assessment of the patient’s needs
• evidence based
• able to be carried out at home
• modified as indicated by regular reassessment of the patient’s progress

References Supporting Core Stability Training:

Long, A., Donelson, R., Fung, T.: Does it Matter Which Exercise? A Randomized Control Trial of Exercise for Low Back Pain. Spine 29(23), 2004.

Lee, D.: The Pelvic Girdle. An approach to the examination and treatment of the lumbo-pelvic-hip region. Churchill Livingston, 1989.

Richardson, C., Jull, G., Hodges, P., Hides, J.: Therapeutic Exercise for Spinal Segmental Stabilization in Low Back Pain. Churchill Livingston, 1999.

Jemmett, R.: Spinal Stabilization. The New Science of Back Pain. RMJ Fitness and Rehabilitation Consultants, 2001.

McGill, S.: Low Back Disorders. Evidence-Based Prevention and Rehabilitation. Human Kinetics, 2002.

Clinical Associate for Core Stability:

Donna Richardson   B.Sc.(P.T.)

• Physiotherapist-retired
• twelve years experience as a Registered Physiotherapist
• post-graduate training in enhancing core stability
• Certified Personal Trainer