Dr. Cassone
May 15, 20161 min
The Quadratus lumborum muscle (QL) is commonly referred to as a back muscle but it is actually a muscle of the posterior abdomen located behind the kidneys, colon, and psoas muscles. The QLS connect the pelvis to the spine making them important muscles for extension of the back.
Back Pain
When long hours are spent sitting, without stretching or exercising, the major low back muscles become weak, tight, and inhibited. This forces the QL muscles to compensate making them work extra hard resulting in muscle fatigue. Over time, the QLs tighten from strain eventually leading to spasms. This puts pressure on the vertebral bodies of the low back exacerbating any disc issues and impinging nerves causing terrible low back pain.
Treatment
Changing the lifestyle that caused the underlying problem is the long term goal but it is often not enough initially. Treatment may involve specific therapies, such as acupuncture, myofascial release, and botanical medicines aimed at releasing spasms, circulating blood, and treating inflammation. Chiropractic care or Physical Therapy also should be considered leaving drugs and surgery as the very last treatment option.