Over the past few years, the number of individuals found lacking sufficient core strength has propelled core stability to the forefront of recognized contributors of lower back pain. Today, tools used in conjunction with specific core strengthening exercises can lead to significant back pain relief. Tools such as OPTP's inflatable Core Challenge Roller, Gymnic Swiss exercise balls, or OPTP's AXIS foam rollers can all be incorporated into successful core training routines. There are also numerous easy-to-follow resources to help educate those interested in core stability.

For instance, Michelle Schwahn's, The Next Core Challenge: Inflatable Roller Workout DVD takes a comprehensive look at core stability. This DVD program offers core anatomy education, narrated exercise demonstrations, and exercise progressions- all presented in an effective way suitable for users of all levels.

Also, best-selling author Caroline Creager, PT, has applied her expertise working with foam rollers to inflatable rollers as well! Her newest book, Core Strength Training: Using Inflatable and Foam Rollers demonstrates over 100 exercises that can be done on either inflatable or foam rollers.

Not only is core stability and core strength necessary for back pain relief, but it's also essential for injury prevention.

The following is an excerpt from OPTP's, "Achieving Core Stability" newsletter from February 2005:

The body's core muscles, also known as the trunk, are made up of the transversus abdominis, lumbar multifidus, diaphragm, and pelvic floor muscles. The muscle groups encircle and support your spine making them the most intimately involved groups in spinal stabilization. (Think of them as a brace for your spine.) They also play a crucial role in communication with the central nervous system and brain. The strengthening of functional muscle groups (core muscles) leads to a more sophisticated neuromuscular system and improved lumbar spine support.

According to Michelle Schwhan, PT, AFAA:

"In a healthy spine there is activation of deep core muscles in stabilization of the trunk before the body moves. This interaction between the deep core muscles and the nervous system plays a role in the proprioceptive feedback sent to the brain as we perform activities and undergo our normal activities."

From rehab to sports and fitness training, the importance of core stability is no secret. A strong core leads to the improvement of everyday life, injury prevention, chronic back pain reduction, and enhanced sports performance. Growing popularity and proven results have vaulted core strengthening exercises into all types of training programs from the rehab clinic to the Pilates studio.

To view additional core stability related tools and resources from names like Hodges, Richardson, Jemmett and McGill, click here: Core Stability

OPTP has published a variety of informational newsletters on this, and many other important topics. To view our newsletter archives click here: OPTP Newsletter Archives