Low back pain is a pestering issue for many of us. Bouts of dull or stabbing pain in the lower back can be a slight nuisance at best – and debilitating at worst.
You may be wondering exactly what muscles and other structures might be causing pain in your lower back. Let’s talk about the muscles that support your lumbar (low back) area, and where you can go here in the Dallas/Fort Worth area for world-class orthopedic care.
Muscles that Support the Lower Back
The following muscle groups help to control, move, and stabilize the low-back area:
Gluteal Muscles
The gluteal muscles consist of three different layers:
- The largest and outermost of these muscles is the gluteus maximus. This muscle allows for extension and external rotation of the hip.
- Next is the gluteus medius, which enables outer rotation of the hip and secures the pelvis into position.
- The smallest and deepest of the three gluteal muscles is the gluteus minimus. It is responsible for the internal rotation of the hip.
Since the gluteal muscles support the pelvis and hip joint, any damage to these muscles directly results in pain in the lower back.
Sitting in one position for an extended period of time can cause tightness and a lack of proper circulation in the gluteal muscles. Overexertion of these muscles can also lead to tightness.
To avoid developing tightness in the gluteal muscles, stand up and walk around after 30 minutes of sitting. Also, be sure to stretch before and after exercising. These actions will help to facilitate proper circulation in the gluteal muscles.
Adductor Muscles
These are the muscles along the inside of the thighs. The primary role of the adductors is to move your thighs inward, toward the body’s midline.
The adductor muscles are composed of the longus, magnus, and brevis muscles. In addition to facilitating hip flexion and rotation, the adductor muscles also play a role in stabilizing the pelvis.
You engage the adductors every time you move your legs, mainly when you walk or run. Playing soccer, hockey, and ice skating can cause strain to the adductors.
Overuse of the adductors can cause strain and fatigue, resulting in a decreased range of motion. When the adductors cannot lengthen and extend, your hip and pelvis receive extra stress as they must compensate to support your body. As a result of this pressure, the lower back experiences pain.
Abdominal Muscles
The abdominal muscles consist of four muscle groups, namely:
- Transversus abdominis
- Rectus abdominis
- External obliques
- Internal obliques
These muscles are responsible for supporting the trunk. They also modulate internal abdominal pressure during movement.
If you’re experiencing low back pain, you may benefit from doing abdominal exercises. Remember to start with gentle movements, in order not to strain your lower back further.
Chiropractic and Regenerative Orthopedics in Dallas, TX
You don’t have to tolerate low back pain anymore. With the help of our outstanding professionals here at Reagan Integrated Sports Medicine, you can alleviate the pain in your lower back once and for all. We offer numerous treatments that can help your back feel like new again.
If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment, give us a call at (972) 503-7272 or fill out our online appointment request form. We look forward to restoring your back to its best condition!
