Core Strength Training Using a Combination of Home Exercises and a Dynamic Sling System for the Management of Low Back Pain in Pre-professional Ballet Dancers: A Case Series

Abstract

Estimates of low back pain prevalence in USA ballet dancers range from 8% to 23%. Lumbar stabilization and extensor muscle training has been shown to act as a hypoalgesic for low back pain. Timing and coordination of multifidi and transverse abdominis muscles are recognized as important factors for spinal stabilization. The purpose of this study was to explore the effects of training methods using home exercises and a dynamic sling system on core strength, disability, and low back pain in pre-professional ballet dancers. Five participants were randomly assigned to start a traditional unsupervised lumbar stabilization home exercise program (HEP) or supervised dynamic sling training to strengthen the core and lower extremities. Measurements were taken at baseline and at weeks 3 and 6 for disability using the patient specific functional scale (PSFS), pain using the Numerical Pain Rating System (NPRS), core strength and endurance using timed plank, side-plank, and bridge positions, and sciatic nerve irritability using the straight leg raise (SLR). Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. From initial to final measurements, all participants demonstrated an improvement in strength and SLR range, and those with initial pain and disability reported relief of symptoms. These results suggest that dynamic sling training and a HEP may help to increase strength, decrease pain, and improve function in dancers without aggravating sciatic nerve irritation.

The impact of different physiotherapy techniques on trunk stabilizer muscles strength, pain and functional disability in persons diagnosed with intervertebral disc herniation

“…The effectiveness of physiotherapy when applying sling exercise therapy in LBP reduction has also been noticed by other authors. Kline et al (2013) stated that the application of this technique during physiotherapy sessions reduced PBP and disability in ballet dancers [12].…”

The Examination of Muscle Balance in Dancers

“…The programme is based on strengthening the transverse abdominal muscles, which play a key role in correct posture and preventing chronic low back pain. [27] In their study Rickman and Co. also noted that among dancers, complaints and injuries affecting the spine occur with a high frequency, with an especially high percentage in the case of the low back area. Thus they recommended that the core stability programme consisting of exercises aimed at strengthening muscles essential for posture is applied in the case of professional dancers.…”

Effects of lumbopelvic sling and abdominal drawing-in exercises on lung capacity in healthy adults

“…Recently, exercises based on the use of slings, intended to stabilize trunk muscles, have been used14 ) . Sling exercises are performed using the subject body weight and antigravity, and have the advantages of requiring little space, being straightforward, and of enabling diverse exercises.…”

“…Sling exercises are performed using the subject body weight and antigravity, and have the advantages of requiring little space, being straightforward, and of enabling diverse exercises. As a result they are widely used to strengthen respiratory muscles14 ) . In addition, unlike other exercise methods, sling exercises are effective for muscle strengthening because changes in body axis allow different movements14 ) .…”

“…As a result they are widely used to strengthen respiratory muscles14 ) . In addition, unlike other exercise methods, sling exercises are effective for muscle strengthening because changes in body axis allow different movements14 ) . Respiratory competence improvement by sling exercise is due to increases in the activities of core respiratory muscles that are required to maintain neutral posture during trunk movements caused by the external resistance applied by the sling.…”