April’s Five Minute Manager
‘The Core’ De-mystified
What?
As opposed to those involved in movement and force generation, core muscles can generate & maintain Intra-abdominal pressure which has been demonstrated to unload the spine during both static and dynamic lifting tasks.
Which?
Intra-abdominal pressure is developed by the Diaphragm, Transversus Abdominus & the Pelvic floor as opposed to musculature popularly associated with the word core such as Rectus Abdominus (6 pack muscle).
How…
- As opposed to exercises targeting Rectus Abdominus such as Sit-ups or Crunches, those that target the core would constitute incrementally progressive loading the limbs whilst the patient generates and maintains intra-abdominal pressure.
- Movements becoming more complex, functional and in varied directions with increased resistance would constitute the growing load described.
So…
- We have found it vital to challenge client’s understanding of core strength
- We have found that following Pelvic or abdominal surgery such as a Cesarean delivery, following pregnancy or in the presence of a hernia the re-establishment of core muscles is particularly crucial.
Hope this helps! Looking forward to seeing you soon!
Michael Rafla
Physiotherapist
Australian Sports Physiotherapy
Ivanhoe, Heidelberg, Coburg, Northcote, Carlton North
1300651256
0431 271 714
Frank, C., Kobesova, A., & Kolar, P. (2013). Dynamic neuromuscular stabilization & sports rehabilitation. International journal of sports physical therapy, 8(1), 62–73.
