Treatment 10 – Applying Core Stability to Movement, Readiness & Recovery

Session Goal: Progress core stability into functional movement patterns and connect spinal control to readiness, recovery, and injury prevention.

1. Reinforce concepts

   • Core stabilizes spine.

   • Deep/core muscles protect lumbar region.

   • Early activation helps reduce pain and restore function.

     • Suggested Therapist Script
       “Did you notice how your back felt when you used core engagement during daily tasks?”
       

2. Progressing Toward Functional Core Training

   • As pain improves, training progresses to functional stability exercises.

   • As pain subsides and healing continues, your exercises should be more focused on core stability.

   • These improve neuromuscular control and endurance necessary for duty tasks.
     

3. Link to Military Demands

   • Stability under load

   • Rapid changes in position

   • Lifting or carrying equipment

   • Weapon handling and braced positions

     • Suggested Therapist Script
       “We need stability before mobility. This becomes more vital the more intense the activity and/or load.”
       

4. Tactical & Real-World Integration

   • Incorporating core stability into tactical movements enhances performance.

   • Better core control = safer transitions (kneeling, prone, lifting, climbing).

   • Reduces energy expenditure and improves precision in movement tasks.
     

     Examples

     • Ruck marches

     • Obstacle courses

     • Long-duration standing

     • Quick transitions (kneel → stand → kneel)
       

5. How Massage Therapy Supports Core Stability Work

   • Massage reduces muscle guarding and stiffness, making activation easier.

   • Improves circulation → helps core muscles recover and coordinate better.

   • Reduces compensatory tension in hips, glutes, thoracic spine.

   • Helps patients tolerate and progress core work during recovery.

     • Suggested Therapist Script
       "Massage prepares the body to activate the right muscles — it removes barriers to stable movement.”
       

6. Daily Recommendations & Reinforcement

   • 5–10 minutes of core activation 3×/week.

   • Pain-free practice with controlled breathing.

   • Maintain consistency — progress is gradual but powerful.

     • Suggested Therapist Script
       “Core stability is long-term readiness training — it protects your back today and your performance tomorrow.”

Summary for Providers