The role of the Psoas in Back Pain is a much talked one. It has a great influence in our experience of not only back pain, but movement as well.
The reason why it can play a major role in back pain is because it connects our lower body to the lumbar spine. More precisely, it runs from the upper thigh bone (femur) at the lesser trochanter, runs through the pelvic area, connects to all the 5 vertebraes in the lower back and attaches all the way up at the beginning of our thoractic spine (mid back) at T12. It runs “symmetrically” either side of the body. You can see it highlighted in the image below.
Since the Psoas acts as a hip flexor it helps us walk the right way. Psoas helps moves our back leg forward. So if you have pain while walking, make sure to have a look at your Psoas! You might find it is tense and tender and it might need a little release.
One of the worse things you can do for you Psoas muscle is lead a sedentary life. The muscle will become chronically contracted in those that spend long hours seated, leading to stiffness and reduced mobility which will be felt especially in the lower back and the hips.
Other reasons that might cause the Psoas to become tense are certain sports. These are sports are those that require a lot of hip flexion, such as cycling, running and climbing.
Any movement that involves lunging and stretching the front of the body will help the hips and lower back feel more mobile and in turn might help lower back pain.
Want to feel the role of the Psoas in back back pain for yourself?
If so try this FREE practice to release the psoas you can check the one below.
As always, if your pain persists, it’s sharp and sudden and if the exercises make your pain worse consult a specialist. Consult a trusted professional that can work with you one on one, such as a physiotherapist, osteopath or your GP. A massage therapist can also be incredibly helpful. However, since the massage profession is not regulated in the UK, make sure that your therapists has reputable qualification at least at level 4 in sports, clinical or remedial massage.
You can read more about my one on one work using both massage and yoga
Love,
Bea
