Stability ball as a chair for the back patient part 3

There are several studies that show the benefits of the gym ball. These include increased muscle activation, co-activation and muscle co-contraction. For the most part, studies have looked at the gym ball for its value in rehabilitation and fitness. These studies have concentrated on muscle function, muscle strength and muscle coordination. Studies of this nature are important to help assess the appropriateness of gym ball use for rehabilitation and fitness.

I know of no studies that have identified the muscles that are activated by sitting on the gym ball and few studies, if any, have been done using the gym ball as a replacement for the office chair. A study by Gill and Callaghan found a difference in proprioception between individuals with back pain and those without back pain. This may explain why the gym ball helps the back pain patient. Clinical evidence suggests the gym ball may be of benefit for some patients as a replacement for their chair at work. The term for this is “active sitting”

The instructions that we use in our clinic for gym ball use are quite simple. The ball must fit the patient. Most authors recommend sitting on the ball with feet flat on the floor and the hips and knees at a 90º angle. We have been recommending to our patients that the hips should be slightly higher than the knees (1 or 2 inches).

Each patient is instructed to proceed with caution when beginning to use the gym ball and to only sit on it as long as it is comfortable. We recommend a minimum of 20 minutes on the ball each day for rehabilitation and prevention and it may take time to build up to the 20 minutes. If the ball is to be used as a chair, we recommend a gradual introduction by the patient, sitting only as long as is comfortable. Comfort will determine the amount of time each day that a patient sits on the ball at work. Some patients sit on the ball all day and some for part of the day. Introducing the gym ball as a chair should follow the same guidelines as the introduction of any new exercise plan.

Let's connect at info@gaiaadventures.com.

Catherine D'Aoust at GAIA Adventures, Kinesiologist, Workshops
www.gaiaadventures.com

Stability Ball Workshop (basic 2 day) Calgary March 23, 24, Advanced Body Ball Workshop Calgary March 25, MTAA approved.
Stability Ball Workshop (basic 2 day) June 15, 16, Vancouver, July 13, 14 in Whistler, Foam Rolling Workshop (1 day) Whistler, July 15, CECs, BCRPA, MTABC, MTAA