Chiropractors love their crazy devices, don’t they? A wobble board might be recommended by your chiropractor as a supplement to your chiropractic care plan. It is a simple device you stand on to restore balance, strengthen muscles and promote alignment of the spine and overall skeletal-muscular structure. Best of all, it is fun to use!
What in the World is a Wobble Board?
A wobble board is a low-tech exercise tool you stand on to balance. As implied in the name, it is a flat surface with a dome on the bottom of the board, causing it to wobble. These boards are often round, but fitness companies are making them in all shapes and sizes. They are designed out of different types of materials including wood, plastic and hard vinyl.
Why Would My Doctor Recommend This?
Wobble boards are often recommended during rehabilitation to restore balance and strengthen specific muscle groups. A wobble board also improves proprioception. Proprioception is the ability to sense the body’s position, balance and placement. By improving the function of stabilizing muscles and increasing overall body awareness and balance, natural movement and exercise abilities are enhanced.
What Muscles are Strengthened by Using a Wobble Board?
A wobble board improves the stabilizing muscles. Every area of the body is involved for balance. The following muscle groups are actively engaged when using a wobble board:
· Feet and ankles
· Calves
· Lower abdomen and hips
· Abdomen and all “core” muscles
Benefits of Balance and Strong Stabilizing Muscles
If you are reaping the benefits of chiropractic care, it makes sense for your doctor to prescribe exercises for home. Chiropractic care is not only about repairing dysfunction, it is about restoring your body to a position of optimal wellness. Strong stabilizing muscles and improved balance will increase range of motion and improve athletic endurance. Thus, while receiving chiropractic adjustments, it makes sense to continue therapy efforts by using a wobble board during your treatment regime.
Wobble Board Exercises
There are different ways to use a wobble board besides just standing on it and attempting to balance. Your doctor may recommend specific exercises to improve different muscles groups. Here are some exercises to try using your wobble board:
· Side-to-Side Tapping- Stand in the center of the board and rock from side to side tapping each side on the ground.
· Board Sitting- Sit on the board with your legs crossed and engage your core muscles and lower back to balance the board.
· Balanced Push-ups- Assume push up form with your hands placed on the board. Push up while engaging in balance using your shoulders, arms and core.
Closing Thoughts from Dr. Tali
Wobble board exercise is a great addition to your chiropractic care plan. Working to improve all areas of function and focus is our goal for you. Call us today at Radiant Health Chiropractic. We will assess your physical condition and recommend new and innovative tools, exercises and therapies to increase your overall health and physical ability.
In wellness,
Dr. Tali