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Quickjump:
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What is core stability?
Core stability is the ability of your trunk to support the effort and forces from your arms and legs, so that muscles and joints can perform in their safest,strongest and most effective positions.
The core muscles are deep seated muscles which have attachments on the pelvis and spine. They act as stabilisers of the spine ("corset") to allow ballistic movements of the trunk, lower and upper limbs.
Substantial research has demonstrated a delay in the activation of this stabilising mechanism following an episode of low back pain. Therefore it is essential for anyone suffering from low back pain to retrain the core muscles to accelerate recovery and prevent further episodes.
Core stability is also very important when participating in sports. Poor core stability can result in overloading muscles and joints and lead to overuse injuries. Recently a marathon runner attended our centre complaining of knee pain, on assessment the knee tested normal, a further look into his core muscle activation revealed poor control and following a 2 week core stability program his knee pain resolved.
By training specifically for core stability, you gain a number of benefits such as greater capacity for speed generation, more efficient use of muscle power, decreased injury risk, increased ability to change direction, improved balance and co-ordination and improved posture
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Who would benefit from core stability exercises?
Anyone suffering from low back pain (acute and chronic), neck pain, shoulder and scapular (shoulderblade) pain, hip pain, knee pain.
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Do you have to have an injury before you can do core stability exercises?
No, anyone participating in sports, gardening, DIY etc. would benefit from core stabilising exercises to prevent injury for the above mentioned reasons. If you want to be taught core stabilising exercises, you can make an appointment with one of our physiotherapists and they will be happy to provide you with the necessary information and programs available.
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How many sessions do I need to be taught a core stability program?
Normally it takes 3-4 sessions depending on the individual.
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