Trunk stabilization training: An evidence basis for the current state of affairs

Abstract

Trunk stabilization training is one of a number of possible treatments to manage low back pain. While there are many approaches to treating low back pain, trunk stabilization has been quite popular over the past decade. This is especially the case with the focus of investigation on isolated transverse abdominis muscle activation and its contribution to trunk stability. The focus of such investigation has not only influenced the management of low back pain, but also has been touted for treatment of many other pathologies of the upper and lower extremities, as well as for injury prevention and performance enhancement [10,79,119]. These assertions, as well as those of altered transverse abdominis firing leading to poor trunk stability, are some of the concepts related to trunk instability and stabilization training that lack evidence. The concept of trunk or lumbar instability has become quite popular, although it also appears to lack sufficient literature support. The concept of lumbar instability is difficult to define and does not sufficiently describe the true mechanism of pain and related dysfunction. While several concepts related to trunk stability and trunk stabilization training have gained popularity in the current literature, the evidence supporting these