Page 60 - Tropic Magazine Issue 28

TROPIC • SPORT

Brace for it

ADVICE
PhyxMe Physiotherapist
Ryan Adam explains the
connection between back pain
and core strength.

Do we actually need core
stability exercises?
If we’re talking about the effectiveness of
core exercises in the context of treating there’s emerging evidence that many
low back pain, the answer appears to be experiencing severe pain and disability
no. In fact, increasing contraction in core would benefit from decreasing their
muscles may actually increase back pain trunk muscle tension.
in certain individuals. This is due to core muscle contraction
This may come as a shock to the millions increasing compressive force on the discs,
of back pain sufferers who have been facet joints, and possibly major nerve
diligently working on achieving a good roots. This can even occur at low levels,
level of core activation before daring to and if spinal structures are inflamed and
pick something up. sensitised already then it may stir them
Many physios, pilates coaches and fitness up even more.
trainers may also be surprised to hear So, what’s the take-home message?
this news, considering their continued Pain is complex and has many
concentration on core stability exercises. contributing factors. Physical,
A growing body of research has been psychological, social, and lifestyle factors Barrier Reef
challenging the validity of such an specific to the individual mix together to
approach since the early 2000s, and it’s generate, amplify, and keep pain around Big Bash
unfortunate this knowledge has not long term. T20 style cricket is coming to Cairns
reached the mainstream yet. Don’t feel bad if you don’t focus on core with the Barrier Reef Big Bash.
An extensive research review in 2014 exercises to address your chronic back The inaugural Indian Premier League-
concluded that core stabilisation exercises pain issue, and if you suspect they are not style T20 tournament will get a good
may aid lower back pain, but in the long helping (or even increasing) your pain run from early February to the end of
term, are no better than any other form of and discomfort, then immediately stop March. Come to the crease and watch
general activity like simply going and discuss with your therapist or trainer. the Halpin Hurricanes, Designer First
for a walk. Homes Dare Devils, Twomey Schriber
In regard to core exercises doing MORE: phyxme.com.au Thunder, and Piccones Badgers bash it
more harm than good in some, out under lights at Griffiths Park.

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60 • Tropic • Issue 28