Core Strength & Low Back Pain — A Calgary Physiotherapist’s Guide to a Stronger Spine

Low back pain is among the most common reasons people seek physiotherapy—impacting up to 80% of adults at some point in their lives (Balagué et al., 2012). While several factors contribute to low back pain, one of the most effective and evidence-backed treatment approaches is improving core stability.

At our MacLeod Trail physiotherapy clinic in Calgary, we help clients of all ages build spinal resilience and reduce pain by targeting the deeper core muscles that support, stabilize, and protect the lumbar spine.

Why Core Strength Matters for Low Back Pain

The “core” goes far beyond visible ab muscles. It includes a deep, interconnected network that works together to support the spine:

• Transversus abdominis (TrA) — the deepest abdominal muscle, acts like a corset

• Multifidus — stabilizing muscles along the spine

• Pelvic floor — contributes to intra-abdominal pressure and pelvic alignment

• Diaphragm — controls breathing and pressure regulation

These muscles form a dynamic cylinder that stabilizes the spine during movement. When poorly activated or weakened, the spine becomes more susceptible to strain, instability, and injury. Multiple studies support this model of core function and its impact on back pain. (Hodges Richardson, 1996; Akuthota et al., 2008)

Common Causes of Low Back Pain We See in Calgary

• Acute muscle or ligament strains

• Lumbar disc bulges or herniations

• Facet joint irritation and joint stiffness

• Poor sitting and lifting mechanics

• Core and gluteal weakness

• Prolonged static postures (e.g., desk jobs)

• Mental stress, which heightens pain sensitivity (Linton, 2000)

How Physiotherapy Helps Restore Core Strength & Reduce Pain

1. Comprehensive Movement Assessment

We assess:

• Spinal mobility and segmental stiffness

• Core control and motor patterns

• Posture and functional movement

• Breathing mechanics and coordination

2. Education & Pain Neuroscience

Understanding pain can reduce fear and encourage safe movement. We explain how the nervous system interacts with muscular control and how movement improves recovery. (Moseley, 2003)

3. Manual Therapy

Hands-on techniques, including joint mobilizations, myofascial release, and nerve glides, can ease pain, reduce tension, and improve spinal mechanics.

4. Targeted Core Activation & Strengthening

Our programs go well beyond crunches. We teach:

• Transversus abdominis and multifidus activation

• Glute strengthening for pelvic control

• Diaphragmatic breathing and bracing

• Anti-rotation drills (e.g., Pallof press)

• Dynamic core challenges using bands or stability tools

5. Postural and Ergonomic Coaching

We provide personalized recommendations for desk setup, lifting strategies, and sleep

positioning to reduce spine strain in everyday life.

6. Graded Exposure & Functional Progression

We use progressive loading to gradually reintroduce activities like bending, squatting, or

running—restoring function and confidence.

Results You Can Expect

Most clients report meaningful improvement in 2–4 weeks, particularly when they follow their home exercise plan consistently. Research shows that combining manual therapy with core retraining and education provides superior outcomes for low back pain sufferers (Stuge et al., 2004; van Middelkoop et al., 2011).

Why Choose Our Calgary Back Pain Clinic?

Conveniently located at 8989 MacLeod Trail SW, we proudly serve South Calgary

communities including Haysboro, Kingsland, Acadia, and Fairview. Our expert

physiotherapists create customized care plans grounded in the latest spinal rehab research.

Book Your Core & Spine Assessment Today

A stronger core leads to a more resilient back—and a better quality of life. Let’s work together to reduce your pain and restore movement.

Stronger core = happier spine. Let’s build the foundation for a pain-free back together.

References

 Hodges PW, Richardson CA. (1996). Inefficient muscular stabilization of the lumbar

spine associated with low back pain. Spine.

 Akuthota V, et al. (2008). Core stability exercise principles. Curr Sports Med Rep.

 Balagué F, et al. (2012). Non-specific low back pain. Lancet.

 Linton SJ. (2000). A review of psychological risk factors in back and neck pain. Spine.

 Moseley GL. (2003). Joining forces—combining cognition-targeted motor control

training with group or individual pain physiology education. Physiotherapy Theory and

Practice.

 Stuge B, et al. (2004). The efficacy of a treatment program focusing on specific

stabilizing exercises for pelvic girdle pain. Spine.

 van Middelkoop M, et al. (2011). Exercise therapy for chronic nonspecific low-back pain.

Best Practice & Research Clinical Rheumatology.