Most fitness coaches will remind you that ‘core strength is key’ or to ‘tighten your core,’ but is it really that important? The truth is core strength can help everyone, from gym enthusiasts, competitive athletes, and non-athletes who just want to be healthy. Strengthening your core isn’t about getting toned or chiseled abs. Your core comprises three layers — upper abdominalis, oblique muscles along either side of your stomach, and back muscles that run along your spine. Developing strong core muscles will not only make you leaner but also help you better stabilize your spine for a stronger back.
If the core muscles are weak, your body will rely more on passive structures for stability. This includes the ligaments, spinal bones, and discs which can cause pain. If core muscles are strong, the spine stays in a neutral position, making it easier to maintain a proper posture. There are many other benefits to having a strong core, such as the decreased risk of injury, better athletic performance, and easier completion of daily tasks. This makes core stability and strengthening important aspects of functional rehabilitation. You need to build enough core strength before you can build strength anywhere else.
Build Core Strength Through Physical Therapy
A physical therapist is the best person to help you build up strength in your pelvis, hips, back, diaphragm and midsection. The internet may be full of do-it-yourself exercises to strengthen your core, but everyone has different needs. Doing the wrong exercises for those with pre-existing conditions or those undergoing scoliosis treatment for adults can lead to injuries and more pain. When you work with a physical therapist, they will determine the right exercises to bolster your core strength at a pace that won’t put you at risk of injury. In addition, they will supervise your sessions to ensure you are doing the movements correctly.
There are dozens of ways to improve your core strength, and it’s up to you and your therapist to decide on a method that you will enjoy. For instance, you can strengthen your core with a yoga or Pilates regimen along with your scoliosis correction sessions or engage in sports like swimming or rowing. Using gym equipment such as kettlebells and resistance balls during your workout is also effective. As you increase your core strength, you will change the way you carry yourself and become more mindful of how you position your body. For example, having a better-supported back will not only improve balance and coordination but also relieve back pain.
Your core is in the center of your body, so it needs to be strong to support your weight. Your core muscles surround and support your spine and pelvis and connect your upper body and lower body. A physiotherapist will help build your core strength by prescribing exercises, supervising your activities, keeping you motivated to make timely progress, and answering questions throughout your therapy course. NorAlign Functional Rehabilitation Center can work one-on-one with you to provide treatments tailored to your individual needs. We offer a wide range of services, including pain management, non-surgical scoliosis treatment, spinal therapy, and more. Contact +971 4 340 0017 for more information!