When people think of core strength, they often associate the term with having a six pack or a flat stomach. In reality, core strength matters for a wide variety of reasons related to one’s physical health and well-being. In the area of women’s health, improving core strength is imperative during pregnancy, in preparation for labor, and following delivery in order to facilitate a faster and less painful process. A person’s core anchors their center of gravity, helping with balance and supporting all of the other muscles.
Read on to discover the ways in which seeking physical therapy at Core3 Physical Therapy can assist you in improving your core strength and, by extension, lead to greater quality of life.
What muscles make up your core?
Your core is made up of different parts, all working together to offer the body support and stability:
- The transverse abdominis (spine and pelvis support)
- The oblique muscles (rotation of the body)
- The rectus abdominis (bending forward)
- The pelvic floor muscles (reproductive health)
- The back muscles (spine support)
- The diaphragm (breath support)
The importance of physical therapy to core strength
Core strength, like other areas of the body, will naturally decline as you age and if you have bad posture or other conditions. Bones and cartilage face natural wear and tear. To prevent further injury from falls and other accidents, people should seek to improve their balance. This is where physical therapy at Core3 Physical Therapy comes in; the regime of core exercises created by your physical therapist will exercise your core muscles and increase their strength once again, leading to protection from further injury and better quality of life.
Some common, beneficial elements of physical therapy core strength maintenance include:
- Low-impact cardio, like walking and swimming, that involve using the core to balance
- Different methods to keep track of progress and assure you are meeting your goals
- Supervision of sessions by a physical therapist to assure exercises are done correctly and to prevent accidents
- Advice on further actions that can be taken at home, independently
All-around benefits
Physical therapy is a great option for a wide range of patients. Besides seniors who need the extra help maintaining a healthy body and the ability to balance as they age, those affected by scoliosis and other spinal issues can benefit from physical therapy to improve their posture. Those who enjoy running recreationally, as well as other sports enthusiasts, can treat back and neck pain by strengthening their core with physical therapy as well. This comprehensive service offering is for people from all walks of life.
CORE 3 Physical Therapy is a privately-owned clinic that provides specialty treatment in the area of women’s health, as well as common orthopedic injuries. No physician’s referral is necessary to access our services. With three locations statewide, we are your go-to provider in Pennsylvania. Give us a call to learn more!
