BLOG #1 The Link Between The Hamstrings, Gluteus Maximus and Lower Back Pain: Dont Suffer in Silence Lower back pain is a regular occurrence within the population, but exact causes are not always identified. With such an injury, it is crucial to assess pelvic alignment, down to foot positioning as these can provide clues for a diagnosis. Please note: This blog focuses on back pain which is not associated with arthritic changes in the vertebrae, or any type of disc herniation. The role of the gluteus maximus: The gluteus maximus, situated in the buttocks, should work to stabilise the sacroiliac joint (at the base of the spine), control movement at the hip and prevent the thigh bone from rotating inwards. If these functions are not controlled as they should be, repercussions may be seen in the form of back pain, knee problems and even stress injuries in the feet and lower leg. Diagnostic measures: - Tests can be performed to gauge the muscle firing patterns around the lower back and hip. It has been proposed that lower back pain can be as a result of an underactive gluteus maximus or from this muscle firing after the hamstrings and longitudinal back muscles (Larsen, 2010). - Tightness in the front of the hip can affect the position of the pelvis. This, in itself, can put the lower back under excess pressure. Also, if the muscles at the front of the hip are overactive, it can cause the neural drive to the muscles at the back to be lessened. This is termed reciprocal inhibition. - Finally, it was identified that any increase in the fluid around the hip can cause the gluteus maximus to inhibit further (Freeman et al., 2013). What does this mean? The hamstrings should work together with the gluteus maximus to extend the hip and control the position of the back; this is important during walking, running and stair climbing, to name a few. However, if the gluteus maximus is underactive, the hamstrings have to do more of the work (Kang et al., 2013). This muscle group may therefore become injured or the lower back may become painful. How can a Sports Therapist help? The individualised cause for the symptoms should be assessed during a thorough examination and assessment. Following this, we can provide rehabilitation and hands-on treatment to: - address any hip tightness - preferentially activate the gluteus maximus over the hamstrings - strengthen areas to ensure pelvic alignment is optimal. Megan Williams BSc (Hons) (SW) MSST LCGI
Posted on: Mon, 28 Oct 2013 17:38:33 +0000
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