The Myth of Core Stability in Tauranga and Mount Maunganui

For years, we've been told that having a strong core—especially the abs and lower back—can prevent injuries, improve posture, and reduce pain. While core strength is important, it’s not the ultimate solution to these problems. Many people believe that simply doing core exercises will fix everything, but research shows that’s not true. A better approach is Structural Chiropractic in Mount Maunganui Tauranga, which focuses on correcting spinal misalignments and improving how the body functions as a whole.

The Core Stability Myth in Tauranga and Mount Maunganui

The idea behind core stability is that weak core muscles lead to back pain and that strengthening them will fix it. This belief has led to an explosion of core workouts like planks, crunches, and stability programs. However, studies show that core strength alone doesn’t guarantee pain relief or injury prevention.

Why Core Stability is Overrated

1. Pain Has Many Causes: Weak core muscles are not the only reason people experience pain. Poor posture, joint misalignment, nerve issues, and lifestyle habits (like sitting too much) all play a role.
2. Strong Cores Don't Always Mean Less Pain: Research has found that people with strong cores can still have pain, while some with weak cores don’t. This suggests core strength alone isn’t the key factor.
3. Too Much Bracing Can Cause Problems: Overusing core muscles can lead to stiffness and poor movement patterns, increasing stress on the body.
4. Pain is a Neurological Issue: Pain is controlled by the nervous system, and simply strengthening muscles won’t fix nerve dysfunction that contributes to chronic pain.

Why Structural Chiropractic is a Better Solution

Structural Chiropractic focuses on correcting spinal misalignments that cause pain and dysfunction. Unlike traditional chiropractic care that primarily treats symptoms, Structural Chiropractic addresses the root problem, helping the body function optimally.

Benefits of Structural Chiropractic

1. Fixes the Root Cause: Instead of just strengthening muscles, it corrects spinal misalignments that disrupt nerve signals and movement.
2. Enhances Nerve Function: The nervous system controls everything in the body, including muscle coordination and healing. A properly aligned spine improves nerve function, reducing pain and enhancing movement.
3. Supports Proper Posture: Many cases of chronic pain stem from poor posture. Structural Chiropractic helps realign the body, reducing stress on muscles and joints.
4. Encourages Natural Movement: When the spine is aligned, the body moves more efficiently without excessive core bracing.
5. Provides Long-Term Results: Unlike core workouts that require constant maintenance, Structural Chiropractic delivers lasting improvements by restoring the body’s natural balance.

Conclusion

While core exercises can be beneficial, they are not a cure-all for pain and injury prevention. Many issues stem from spinal misalignments and nerve dysfunction, which core exercises alone cannot fix. Structural Chiropractic addresses these underlying causes, promoting long-term health and improved body function. If core exercises haven’t resolved your pain, it might be time to explore Structural Chiropractic as a more effective solution.

For the vast majority of our patients that present to our Mount Maunganui or Te Puke clinics, there has usually been a significant overall improvement in their condition. If you or someone you know is suffering call us at (07) 574 3099 for a consultation and to set up a time to have your pelvis, spine, and nervous system checked.

Dr. David Guest is a Doctor of Chiropractic, a member of the New Zealand Chiropractic Association, and owner of Mount Maunganui and Te Puke Chiropractic in the Bay of Plenty. Dr. Guest focuses on an area of chiropractic called Structural Correction and has been in practice for 20 years. He loves helping spines of all sizes and shapes. You can reach Dr. Guest at david@mtchiro.co.nz or (07) 574 3099.