Is your tight Quadratus Lumborum (QL) causing you problems?
This muscle sits in your lower back, attached from your 12th rib, the L1-L5 transverse processes of the vertebrae and the iliac crest.
When the QL on one side of your back contracts it causes a side flexion of your spine to that side. When both QLs work together it helps to extend your back (arching). The QL also helps to assist with diaphragmic breathing by controlling the 12th rib. Lastly, the QL hitches your hip in standing if contracted on just one side. Lots of jobs for a little quadrangle shaped muscle!
But… the QL is a common source of pain. It overworks if you’re sitting a lot, especially if you have weak spinal muscles and weak core muscles. it also gets overworked if you have weak glutes, compensating for hip abduction.
This overuse results in tightness which will result in poor posture – often an increased back arch in standing. It will also become a source of pain and muscle spasm.
Watch our upcoming video this week to learn how to stretch your QL. If you think this is a problem for you, give us a buzz and one of our expert physios will assess your back and get you on the path to recovery.
You can also browse our blog on relieving QL pain here.
Miami Physio: 9534 4111
Lakelands Physio: 9542 9999
