Treatment 9 – Introduction to Core Stability & Why It Matters for Service Members
Session Goal: Introduce core stability, identify key stabilizing muscles, and explain why core control is essential for protecting the lumbar spine during military and daily activities.
Quick Introduction to the Core
Core is more than abs — includes deep and superficial muscles that stabilize spine and pelvis.
Core stability = ability to maintain spinal control during movement.
Essential for load carrying, posture maintenance, quick directional changes, and tactical tasks.
Suggested Therapist Script
“Your core is your body’s central support system — it keeps your spine safe during the demands of military work.”
Core Structures to Highlight
Key Muscles
Transversus abdominis — deepest core muscle, provides trunk stability.
Multifidus & erector spinae — support posture and spinal control.
Obliques & rectus abdominis — rotational and flexion support.
Pelvic floor & diaphragm — regulate intra-abdominal pressure.
Suggested Therapist Script
These muscles ‘work together as a team’ to protect the lumbar spine under load.”
Why Core Stability Is Critical in Sub-Acute LBP
Reduces pain and improves functional recovery.
Helps protect healing tissues during sub-acute phase.
Improves load management — especially gear carry, rucking, lifting.
Reduces compensations that lead to pain.
Enhances movement efficiency (better agility, coordination, stability).
Suggested Therapist Script
"A strong core makes every movement easier — and keeps the low back from doing jobs it shouldn’t.”
Low-Load Activation Exercises
Movements should be gentle and pain-free.
Focus on control, not intensity.
Breath control is part of activation.
Example: Abdominal bracing: gentle tightening without holding breath.
Suggested Therapist Script
“In this stage, it’s about re-learning control — not doing high-effort workouts.”
Patient Homework / Reinforcement
Practice gentle core engagement with breathing.
Apply awareness during daily activities.
Avoid breath holding.