We regularly hear people say “I have back pain because my core is weak…”
Is this true?
For many years we thought that conditions like back pain were due to weak “core muscles” such as the deep abdominal and back muscles.
We thought that developing strong core muscles would prevent back pain, but research doesn’t support this.
Often people with back pain fall into the habit of over activating the core muscles to protect the back. This often makes them feel stiff, vulnerable and tentative with normal movements.
Generally it is good to keep your muscles strong. Especially when lifting heavy weights. It is just as important to be able to relax your core muscles when its not needed such as whilst sitting or tying your shoelaces.
If you’d like to know more or believe you might be over-protecting your back we’re here to help.
