Do You Have an Exercise Ball?

This is a question I often ask my patients when they're ready to begin a regimen of home exercises. I am referring to those big inflatable balls that you see people doing exercises on at the gym. They've also been referred to as a Swiss ball, stability ball, balance ball, and other appropriate names. Using one of these balls can give some creative options for strengthening and conditioning the core muscles, which include the abdominal, pelvic, and lower back muscles. One other great advantage to this inexpensive piece of equipment is proprioceptive exercise. Proprioception refers to the body's sense of balance, position, and movement. Through our amazing and complex nervous system, proprioceptive exercises not only enforce better balance and movement, but help to heal or improve painful conditions. This type of exercise is an integral part of many rehab and fitness programs. Feel free to email or call if you're interested on any more information regarding proprioceptive exercise.