TREATMENT

Regular performance of core exercises helps strengthen the core muscles and provide stability to the low back and pelvis.  It does not take specialized equipment or an expensive gym membership to train the muscles of the lumbopelvic region. Any exercise that uses the trunk of your body without support will incorporate all core muscle groups to some degree. Examples of exercises which require recruitment of core muscles include squats, push-ups and abdominal crunches. The use of low tech devices such as exercise balls, balance platforms, and balance boards create an unstable base which places a greater demand on coordinated function of the core muscles in order to maintain balance and to adequately perform the exercise. The use of an exercise ball improves integration of other balance regulating systems, such as vision, the inner ear, and muscle proprioception.  Regular walking and postural exercise also very beneficial for conditioning core muscles. 

Core stability offers benefits to everyone, including children, older people and athletes. Exercises to improve core stability should be included as part of every conditioning or rehabilitation program, along with flexibility, strength, and aerobic training.

There are many benefits of good core stability. These benefits include:

• Good posture
• Efficient movement.
• Good walking (gait) biomechanics
• Reduced risk for injury
•  Better athletic performance
• Improved spinal health

PREVENTION

The best way to prevent neck and back pain and to prevent progressive spine compromise is to become familiar with how your spine works and to become an active participant in your spinecare. It is important to learn how to choose a spinecare specialist and to recognize an efficient spinecare team. There are many steps you can take and habits you can develop to better care for your spine and prevent spine injury. It is also important that you learn more about your spine disorder and become aware of the signs and symptoms that warrant intervention and follow up care. It is important to develop a strong healthy spine. The more stable a spine is the less likely it is to be injured. Early detection and timely intervention is generally associated with better treatment outcome.