CORE STRENGTH AND BACK PAIN
You may be surprised how frequently issues with the neck and back actually stem from issues with core strength. Your core refers to the muscles that make up your torso, including your abdomen.These muscles are called the core because they are at the center of your body, and they are necessary in just about every action that you engage in. Everything from walking and running and swimming to sitting and driving require you to engage your core. There are a lot of reasons to improve core strength outside of any existing neck or back pain. When you improve your core, you are likely to also improve your posture and thereby reduce your risk of developing further back pain in the future. Furthermore, the exercise that helps to improve core strength is often helpful in promoting weight loss, and for those who are overweight, this could also help reduce pain in the neck and the back. Sometimes, when your core is weak, it can cause you to experience added pressure on areas like your neck and back. There are a lot of ways that working with a physical therapist can help you improve your core strength. You may be encouraged to practice core exercises, for example, which may include abdominal crunches or leg lifts. Light weight-training activities are also frequently helpful, as are balance-based activities like yoga. If you haven’t spent much time building core strength in the past, then working with a physical therapist is a great place to start. Your physical therapist will guide you through proper postures and movements to reduce further risk of injury.
For more information about how to start improving your core, contact us.
Healthy Recipe: Grilled Zucchini with Parmesan
Relieve Pain In Minutes Try this movement if you are experiencing pain.
INGREDIENTS • 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped • ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper, or to taste • ½ cup whole-wheat panko breadcrumbs • 2 ounces Parmesan cheese, grated ( ½ cup) • 1½ teaspoons fresh thyme leaves or 1 teaspoon dried thyme, crushed • 1 teaspoon lemon zest • ¼ teaspoon salt
Strengthens Core
www.simpleset.net
DEAD BUG | HEEL TOUCHES Lieonback,handsup,kneesupandengageyourcore.Slowly lowerone heel to the ground. Alternate sides. Keep core engaged.
• 2 large zucchini, halved lengthwise • Lemon wedges for serving
DIRECTIONS Combine oil, garlic and crushed red pepper in a small skillet over low heat. Cook, stirring often, until the garlic is softened and light golden, 3 to 4 minutes. Remove from heat; let cool for 5 minutes. Stir in panko, Parmesan, thyme, lemon zest and salt. Preheat grill to very high (at least 500°F). Oil the grill grates, using tongs to hold an oil-soaked paper towel. Place zucchini, cut-sides down, on the oiled grates; grill, uncovered, until tender-crisp, about 5 minutes per side. Flip the zucchini so they are cut-side up; spoon the panko mixture evenly on top. Grill, covered, until the topping is golden brown in spots, 2 to 3 minutes. Carefully transfer to a serving platter. Serve with lemon wedges.
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www.advantagerehabinc.net
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