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.

Kick boxing injury

It's come to the end of another week at Premier Physiotherapy Centre. Today I revied a professional kick-boxer that is preparing for a fight in 4 weeks time. He came to see me 2 weeks ago with a straight forward sports hernia. The normal procedure would be to refer him to Mr Snooks (sports hernia specialist) however he was reluctant to do that as it meant he would miss the fight.

I stopped him doing sit-ups, modified his kicking technique to reduce the load on his groin and gave him a series of core control exercises similar to the ones shown on the links.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yfx24wjcX4Y&feature=channel_page
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dKToTnbfcOE&feature=channel_page
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W92-ZpTA10Q&feature=channel
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ooTMUcwduLw&feature=channel

We also used the corex system to increase his core strength and control.

The last week he's been training for 6 hours every day and has no symptoms while training or spiring.

It looks like he will make it through the fight and fingers crosees will win.