Strong Core, Healthy Spine: Why Your Abs Matter More Than You Think

HELPFUL TIPS
June 19, 2025

What Is Your Core—Really?

Most people think "core" means abs, but true core strength goes far beyond a six-pack. Your core includes:

  • Transverse abdominis (deep abdominal wall)
  • Multifidus (small stabilizing spinal muscles)
  • Pelvic floor
  • Obliques (side abs)
  • Diaphragm
  • Glutes and low back muscles

Together, these muscles form a protective corset around your spine—supporting everything from posture and balance to breathing and lifting.


How a Weak Core Affects Your Spine

When your core is weak, your spine bears the brunt of everyday stress. This leads to:

  • More strain on spinal joints and discs
  • Poor posture and rounded shoulders
  • Increased risk of low back pain
  • Muscle compensation and imbalances
  • Higher risk of injury during workouts or basic tasks

If your back aches after standing, bending, or sitting for long periods, your core might not be doing its job.


How Chiropractic + Core Rehab Work Together

At SISU Spine & Rehab, we know that a strong spine starts with proper alignment and functional movement. That's why we combine chiropractic care with core retraining.

1. Chiropractic Adjustments

We realign your spine and hips so your muscles can activate properly. Misalignments can shut down your core—and no amount of crunches will fix that.

2. Muscle Activation Techniques

We use targeted exercises to "wake up" the deep core muscles that support your spine. These aren't high-intensity workouts—they're controlled, corrective movements that build strength from the inside out.

3. Movement Pattern Correction

We teach you how to squat, lift, stand, and sit in ways that protect your spine and engage your core—turning everyday movements into strength training.

"I thought I had a strong core because I did planks and crunches. But I still had back pain. Dr. Serbinski showed me how to activate the right muscles—and now I feel stronger, straighter, and pain-free."— Steve M., Springboro

Signs Your Core Needs Work

  • Chronic low back pain
  • Slouching or poor posture
  • Trouble balancing or standing tall
  • Tight hip flexors and hamstrings
  • Stiff spine that doesn't rotate easily
  • Pain when bending, twisting, or lifting

What NOT to Do for Core Strength

❌ Endless crunches (they overwork surface muscles and stress your spine)

❌ Sit-ups with jerking motions

❌ Ignoring your daily posture

❌ Relying on back braces instead of building internal support

The best core work focuses on stability before strengthfunction over flex, and quality over quantity.


FAQ

Q: Can chiropractic care alone fix a weak core?

A: Adjustments restore alignment and nerve function, which is crucial. But combining them with smart movement training is key for lasting strength and back health.

Q: Do I need to be athletic to do core rehab?

A: Not at all! We tailor exercises to your age, fitness level, and goals. Whether you're recovering from injury or just starting your wellness journey, we meet you where you are.


Final Thoughts: Build a Body That Supports You

Core Strength Isn't Just Fitness—It's Foundational Health

When your core is strong and your spine is aligned, your entire body moves better, hurts less, and performs at a higher level. At SISU Spine & Rehab, we help you build that foundation—one adjustment, one movement, one step at a time.

📞 Call us at (513) 614-2151

📍 Visit our Springboro, OH clinic

🌐 Book your core & posture assessment at www.sisurehabilitation.com