The core

Following the question of one of my patien's "what is the core" I looked for the best way to describe it and this is what I came up with The core The Core is an integrated functional unit consisting of the Lumbo-Pelvic-Hip Complex, the Thoracic and Cervical Spine. It is a Muscular Corset that lends integrity and  support to the body. The Core is the center of the body, the thickest part of the body. The Core is where all movement is modulated. It is more than “six pack abs”. The core works as an integrated functional unit that accelerates, decelerates, and dynamically stabilizes the body during movement. All movement is relayed through the core. The core is in effect a swivel joint between the hips and the shoulders which: 1) Allows the entire body to accelerate the limbs 2) Allows the entire body to decelerate the limbs 3) Allows the entire body to support a limb. So strengthening the core is a complicated multidimensional process that requires good understanding of biomechanics and normal movement.

Patient testimony

PI suffered with chronic lower back pain for over 6 years, caused by the effects of 2 prolapsed discs (old sports injury).  Over the years I've been treated by other Physiotherapists, but none have offered me the level of help and support that Nick has. It's a shame I never met him sooner!  Nick actively listened to my concerns and prescribed a highly effective treatment plan, significantly reducing the amount of pain I suffered with. Prior to receiving treatment from Nick, I could only sit for a maximum for 15 minutes as back-pain forced me to stand up in agony!!    I can honestly say, I'm now able to sit comfortably for over 2 hours. My quality of life has improved significantly and I've returned to the sports I love, with the confidence I once had. Big thanks for your superb help Nick, I'm well and truly back on the road to recovery.  David McEwen.

Complicated abdominal muscle injury

This week I discharged one of my clients with an unusual and complicated abdominal problem. He was getting pain in the right side of his rectus abdominis which is the superficial abdominal muscle. His pain was initiated by running over a few yards and was severe enough to stop the activity. This young gentleman was training hard in order to join the marines and running was an essential part of his training.
After thorough examination i discovered that his problem originated from a lack of low back control that was resulting in overloading his abdominals. We worked really hard to change his low back position, and control of his pelvis. Some of the exercises can be seen in the following links.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ODbj-IZ42e8&feature=channel_page
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dKToTnbfcOE&feature=channel
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ooTMUcwduLw&feature=channel
Other exercises included lounges (straight, with resistance) plyometric work and running drills.

This gentleman is now able to run for over 5 miles at good speed without any symptoms. The rest of his exercise regime has improved as he feels his core is a lot stronger and is able to withstand a lot more load.