Deep Core Muscles Function

Recent research has shown that the deep core muscle function differently from the superficial core muscles (oblique abdominals, rectus abdominus and long back muscles) in that they not only prepare us for movement but they work no matter what we do. They are not movement or direction dependent. They work like a harmonious chord in synergy with one another varying their levels of activation as they anticipate the impending loads that are about to come.

These stabilizing muscles (transversus abdominis, multifidus, pelvic floor and diaphragm) work reflexively, automatically in a healthy individual. When the back is injured either through a sprain or strain, or disc herniation or disc degeneration, these stabilizing muscles are weakened or inhibited and therefore don't support your spine when demands are made upon it. When that support is not there, the large superficial muscles take over. This can lead to excessive stresses and shear on the joints in the spine. If these large muscles are used regularly to perform movements, without the support of the stabilizing muscles, these movement patterns become ingrained and can lead to chronic pain and joint dysfunction, or instability.

When the large "prime movers" are used excessively to try to support one's spine they fatique quickly resulting in burning pain, aching, and "trigger points". In order to relieve the pain in these large superficial muscles you must re-educate and strengthen the deep stabilizing musculature.

You may think of most joints as a curved surface that fits inside another curved surface, or ball and socket in a few cases. With some injuries, the socket part of the equation essentially becomes larger, so the ball moves around excessively. This can create damage to the joint surfaces and put excessive strain on the ligaments that support the joints.

Learn more about core function at my Stability Ball Training workshops accredited for Massage Therapists and Personal Trainers across Canada http://www.gaiaadventures.com/bodyball.html

Catherine D'Aoust at GAIA Adventures
info@gaiaadventures.com

Stability Ball Training in Toronto Sept 17, 18, 19, Ottawa Sept 24, 25, 26 and Vancouver, Oct 28, 29, 30.