Poor posture from core weakness contributes to neck, back, shoulder or hip pain which can then contribute to issues and pain further down the upper or lower extremities. This can make everyday things difficult, such as:
- bending over to tie your shoes.
- sitting while working or driving.
- simply getting dressed in the morning.
A strong core means a healthy back.
When most people think of the core, they think of the abdominals and doing sit-ups and generally know that one needs to have good core strength. Beyond that, most people don’t know much else about the core. Having weak core muscles means that your arms and legs have to try to work harder to move on the unsteady base that is created by the weak core. This increased work load can lead to excess joint movements throughout the body. It can increase pressure and strain on the discs and ligaments of the spine. Essentially, a weak core can contribute to any number of issues from head to toe with low back pain being the most common issue. It is important to address these issues as soon as possible to avoid continued restrictions and worsening of pain from:
- getting dressed
- taking a shower
- sitting
- driving
- enjoying your leisure activities such as playing sports
Physical therapy can help you obtain a strong core and healthy back to avoid pain and discomfort. It can get you back to the things you enjoy doing without delay. Strong core means healthy back.
What are the core muscles?
The core muscles consist of the muscles surrounding and providing stability and postural control to the torso, abdomen and pelvis. These are:
- Abdominal muscles (rectus abdominals – this muscle runs from the sternum (breast bone) to the pubic bone, the internal and external obliques, (these muscles run on both sides along the torso).
- the quadratus lumborum (the deepest abdominal muscle. It’s located in the lower back and begins at your lowest rib and ends at the top of your pelvis.
- the pelvic floor muscles
- the gluteal muscles (group of three muscles which make up the buttocks)
- the iliopsoas (inner hip muscle)
- The latissimus dorsi (located in the middle of the back and runs along the back bone; it is one of the largest muscles in the back.
What do they do?
These muscles help provide for a stable foundation on which the arms and legs can move and transfer forces.
CALL Loudoun Sports Therapy Center TODAY at 703-450-4300.
Do not wait until you have pain in order to actually do something. Our Physical Therapists can help you prevent any discomfort or tightness from becoming painful. Remember: strong core means healthy back.
They will assess the strength, endurance and stability of your core muscles and will teach you ways to use and strengthen these muscles and get you back to your daily, work, and sporting activities safely and without pain. Let us help to get to the CORE of your issues.
For more information on the importance of core strength in day to day living, CLICK HERE
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By: Rachel Herrmann, DPT, PT
