Sensorimotor Mechanisms of Core Stabilization in the Prevention of Recurrence of Non-Specific Low Back Pain: A Narrative Review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.12775/QS.2026.59.72755Keywords
core stabilization, low back pain, motor control, recurrence, sensorimotor control, trunk controlAbstract
Introduction. Non-specific low back pain (LBP) is characterized by a recurrent clinical course, suggesting persistent functional disturbances rather than isolated episodes of tissue injury. Alterations in neuromuscular control, postural coordination, and anticipatory trunk muscle activation have been documented in individuals with LBP. Importantly, “core stability” remains inconsistently defined and should be interpreted as a systems-based construct involving biomechanical and sensorimotor regulation of trunk function rather than isolated muscle activity alone. This narrative review aimed to synthesize current evidence regarding biomechanical and sensorimotor mechanisms associated with trunk control–oriented exercise interventions and their potential role in preventing recurrence of non-specific LBP in adults.
State of knowledge. Current evidence suggests that non-specific LBP is associated with disturbances in feedforward motor control, dysfunction of deep trunk musculature, altered movement coordination, and sensorimotor impairments. Current biomechanical models propose that spinal stability emerges from interactions between passive, active, and neural subsystems. Trunk-focused exercise interventions appear to influence anticipatory activation, intermuscular coordination, and sensorimotor integration, although these effects are more appropriately interpreted as system-level adaptations rather than isolated strengthening effects. Direct evidence linking these mechanisms to reduced recurrence remains limited.
Summary. Trunk control–oriented interventions may contribute to recurrence prevention in non-specific LBP primarily through restoration of sensorimotor control and movement coordination rather than increased muscle strength alone. A systems-based interpretation of these interventions may aid in understanding their clinical effects and developing individualized rehabilitation strategies.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Kacper Petelicki, Julia Szulim, Agnieszka Tora, Ewa Biełanowicz, Wojciech Pondo, Aleksandra Barszcz
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