Before upper extremity and lower extremity movement, which core muscles contract in normal individuals?

The core plays a crucial role in stabilizing the body before initiating movement in the extremities. The transversus abdominis (TA) and multifidus are key muscles that work together to create intra-abdominal pressure and provide stability to the spine and pelvis. When upper or lower extremity movements are performed, these muscles act to engage the core and ensure a stable base for movement, minimizing the risk of injury and maintaining balance.

The transversus abdominis acts like a natural corset, compressing the abdomen and stabilizing the lumbar spine. Meanwhile, the multifidus, which runs along the spine, provides segmental stability by supporting individual vertebrae. The coordinated contraction of these muscles helps to establish a strong core foundation that is essential for efficient and safe movement.

In contrast, options that include other muscle groups, such as the rectus abdominis or diaphragm, while important in core function, do not provide the same level of stability before movement. Similarly, the obliques and pelvic floor muscles have their roles but are not the primary stabilizers engaged before extremity movements. The quadratus lumborum and erector spinae also play important roles in stabilizing the trunk, but they are more involved in maintaining