13: CORE STABILITY Flashcards
What is core stability
the ability to prevent unwanted movement of the body’s centre
Core stability if provided by 3 different systems…
- Passive System
- Active Sytem
- Neutral Control
What is the passive system?
uses structure and arrangement of the vertebra and discs along with spinal ligaments to provide stability
What ligaments are involved in the passive system
- Posterior and anterior longitudinal ligaments
- Ligamentum flavum
- Thoracolumbar fascia
Where is the Posterior Longitudinal Ligament and what does it do
Extends along the length of the spine on the posterior surface of the vertebral bodies. Prevents excessive forward flexion
Where is the Anterior Longitudinal Ligament and what does it do
Extends the length of the spine on anterior surface. Prevents hyper extension of the spine
Where is the Ligamentum Flavum and what does it do
These ligaments are found in the spinal column and connect the vertebrae. They help to maintain the proper spacing between the vertebrae and protect the spinal cord. Strongest ligament in the spine.
Where is the Thoracolumbar Fascia and what does it do
The thoracolumbar fascia is a strong, broad sheet of connective tissue that spans the lower back, connecting the thoracic spine to the lumbar spine. Primarily made of collagen, no contractile properties.
The thoracolumbar fascia plays an important role in the stabilization of the spine and pelvis, as it provides attachment points for several muscles, including the erector spinae, quadratus lumborum, and latissimus dorsi.
What happens if the muscles pulling on the thoracolumbar fascia are imbalanced
weakened and dynamic posture compromised
What is the active system
made up of muscles and tendons of the core. Divided into:
Local - deep muscles
Global - superficial muscles
What are local muscles
- located close to the spine and are responsible for providing segmental stability to the spine
- essential for maintaining proper spinal alignment and stability during movement. They work together with the global muscles
- recruited prior to gross movement to prevent unwanted movement
What muscles are included in ‘local’ muscles
- Transverse abdominis - providing anterior support
- Multifidus - providing posterior support
- Quadratrus Lumborum - lateral support and lumbar spine stability
- Internal obliques - lateral support
- Pelvis floor muscles - inferior support
- Diaphragm - superior support
What are global muscles
- larger, more superficial muscles that are responsible for generating movement and power in the body.
- generate the force and movement needed to perform activities such as walking, running, lifting, and jumping, while the local muscles stabilize the spine and pelvis to allow for efficient and safe movement
What muscles are included in global muscles
- Rectus abdominis: This muscle runs vertically down the front of the abdomen and is responsible for flexing the trunk.
- External obliques: These muscles are located on the sides of the abdomen and are responsible for rotating and side-bending the trunk.
- Internal obliques: These muscles are located beneath the external obliques and are responsible for the same actions.
- Erector spinae: These muscles run vertically along the spine and are responsible for extending the trunk.
- Quadratus lumborum: This muscle is located on the side of the spine and is responsible for lateral flexion of the trunk.
What is neutral control
Neutral control is the optimal balance between the passive and active systems, where the body is in its most stable and efficient alignment.
