Core to Floor: Why Strengthening the Body Is Essential in Healing Chronic Pain

Chronic pain is rarely just about one sore spot. For many people, pain becomes part of a larger cycle that affects sleep, energy, mood, posture, and movement. Over time, discomfort can lead to less activity, weakened muscles, poor core support, and increased strain on the nervous system — making pain harder to resolve.

At DelaneyMD, we approach pain differently. We focus on identifying the root cause, treating the nerve pathways involved, and strengthening the body systems that help prevent pain from returning. One of the most effective ways we do this is through our Core to Floor Protocol, which combines Emsculpt Neo and Emsella.

Understanding the Role of the Core and Pelvic Floor in Pain

Your core and pelvic floor form the foundation of nearly every movement you make. These muscles support your spine, hips, and posture, and they help distribute forces evenly through the body.

When the core and pelvic floor are weak — often due to injury, surgery, prolonged pain, pregnancy, aging, or inactivity — the body compensates. These compensations can lead to:

• Increased strain on the lower back and hips

• Poor posture and instability

• Fatigue with daily movement

• Heightened nerve irritation

• Worsening pain with activity

This breakdown contributes directly to the chronic pain cycle:
pain → reduced movement → muscle weakness → more pain

Breaking that cycle requires rebuilding strength safely and effectively.

What Is the Core to Floor Protocol?

The Core to Floor Protocol is a non-invasive treatment approach that combines two advanced technologies to strengthen the body from the inside out:

Emsculpt Neo — Core & Global Muscle Strength

Emsculpt Neo uses electromagnetic energy and radiofrequency to stimulate powerful muscle contractions while gently warming the tissue. This helps:

• Build and strengthen core muscles

• Improve posture and spinal support

• Increase functional strength without joint strain

• Reduce muscle imbalances that contribute to pain

Emsella — Pelvic Floor & Stability Support

Emsella focuses specifically on the pelvic floor — a critical but often overlooked part of the pain equation. Strong pelvic floor muscles help:

• Support the spine and pelvis

• Improve balance and coordination

• Reduce compensatory strain in the hips and lower back

• Enhance confidence and comfort during daily activity

Together, these treatments address both the foundation (pelvic floor) and the powerhouse (core muscles).

Why Core to Floor Matters for Chronic Pain Healing

Chronic pain is influenced by more than nerves alone. When muscles are weak, the nervous system often stays in a heightened state of protection — amplifying pain signals.

Strengthening the core and pelvic floor helps by:

• Improving movement efficiency

• Reducing unnecessary strain on joints and nerves

• Supporting better posture and balance

• Increasing confidence in movement

• Encouraging safe, consistent activity

This physical strengthening can also positively influence energy levels, mood, and sleep, which are all interconnected parts of the chronic pain cycle.

A Key Part of a Comprehensive Pain Plan

At DelaneyMD, Core to Floor is not a stand-alone solution — it’s part of a comprehensive pain care plan.

Dr. DeLaney focuses on:

• Identifying the nerve source of pain

• Using targeted interventions such as nerve blocks when appropriate

• Strengthening the body systems affected by long-term pain

• Supporting the brain–body connection involved in healing

By addressing pain from multiple angles, patients are better equipped to move forward — not just with less pain, but with greater strength and resilience.

Who May Benefit from Core to Floor?

The Core to Floor Protocol may be beneficial for individuals experiencing:

• Chronic low back pain

• Hip or pelvic discomfort

• Postural instability

• Pain worsened by activity or fatigue

• Core weakness after injury, surgery, or pregnancy

• Long-standing pain with reduced activity tolerance

A consultation is always recommended to determine if this approach is right for you.

Take the Next Step

Chronic pain doesn’t have to define your future. Strengthening your body’s foundation can be a powerful step toward breaking the pain cycle and restoring confidence in movement.

If you’re curious about how the Core to Floor Protocol fits into your personalized care plan, we invite you to connect with our team or attend one of our educational events to learn more.

DelaneyMD
Precision pain care. Whole-body healing.

Author

Leslie R. DeLaney, MD