Challenging Hip Mobility and Core Stability

3/22/2015

Interesting way to implement hip and core together in this video by Eric Cressey. Anti-rotation exercises for the core are not used enough IMO and can be very beneficial for our athletes. Others I like to use include: Chops/lifts, med ball rotational throws, cable walkouts, and anti-rotation cable presses. Check it out.

- Brian

1 Comment

Kieran

3/22/2015 02:42:53 pm

I know that Dr. Stuart McGill is a huge proponent of this style of training and strengthening - based on the idea that the primary role of the core (in his opinion) is stabilization rather than mobilization of the spine, to resist motion rather than to produce it - hence the popularity of anti-rotation, anti-extensions based exercises, etc.

I have read his books and his arguments are undeniably evidence-based and very appealing. I do however have a concern regarding just how functional it is to completely avoid flexion tasks particularly in a rehabilitation environment for those that have discogenic complaints. There is a lot of research available which says extension movements can also invoke shearing forces and displacements through the discs, so if the goal is to 'protect' the disc then surely extension activities should be contraindicated as well no?

Another point, discs are avascular - that is they do not have their own circulation or vascular supply - a healthy disc is one where the nucleus is centralized and that requires constant spinal flexion and extension to 'milk' it. Without mobilization of a disc, it cannot remain healthy and viable and would no doubt precipitate degeneration and dysfunction. Further, the architecture of the lumbar vertebrae is such that it encourages flexion and extension (ignore nominal rotation), to deny it one of these inherent movements seems anything less than functional.

I've long been a follower of TSP on social media and a keen reader of your articles. I would love to hear your take on this - as someone clearly well versed physical therapy and emerging S&C trends.

Challenging Hip Mobility and Core Stability

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