Topic > Importance of Core Stability Training - 959

The importance of core stability training for reducing lower extremity injuries. “Core” refers to both the bony and soft tissue structures of the lumbar pelvic complex (Kibler, Press & Sciascia, 2006). It is proven that core stabilization can have numerous benefits including improving balance and maintaining correct technique in sports. Another benefit of core stability under consideration is the reduction of lower extremity injuries, this connection is highlighted as a key area as activation of core muscles is required to complete ordinary activities including walking and running (Carlson, Thorstensson & Zomlefer, 1982). The papers examined core strength and stability and positively correlated it with the occurrence of lower extremity injuries, which in turn helps develop understanding of the importance of core stability training. The studies examined also highlight the connection between the trunk muscles and the stabilization of the spine which, once again, promotes overall stabilization which in sport can reduce the likelihood of injuries. The importance of core contraction in lower limb movement is examined through the research of Hodges and Richardson in which through the use of fine wire electromyography the activity of selected muscles is measured across different lower limb movements ( Hodges and Richardson, 1997). Through this method, the muscle contraction of fifteen healthy subjects was tested through hip extension, abduction and extension from a standing position. The experiment used numerous repetitions of each movement (10) to ensure the test was reliable, the overall muscle contraction response was recorded and examined. The results showed that in all four exercises performed...... half of the paper ......n of the central musculature in the movement of the lower limb, and thanks to this relationship the need for central stability is demonstrated . Various studies have indicated that low core stability/strength, including hip abductors, hip extensors, lateral trunk, and core endurance strength, may be attributed to an increased risk of lower extremity injury . The exact relationship is still relatively unknown, as many studies are inconclusive with their findings and state that more research is needed to justify the relationship between core stability and lower extremity injuries. While many studies indicate that more research is needed, it is clear that core stability is important in reducing lower extremity injuries as core stability creates the correct muscle movement and lower extremity alignment needed to ensure that the risk of injuries are minimal..