The Quadratus Lumborum (QL) muscle group are in charge of lateral flexion of the trunk, in raising the hip on both sides and extending the lumbar spine. Tension in this area can mimic low back pain, hip pain, backache, lumbar myalgia, pain in SI (sacroiliac/ top of the hip ) region, hip and buttocks pain; also the head of the thigh bone and even pain when coughing. These muscles sit deep to the major Erector Spinae (spine erectors) group and can be easily over looked.
Sitting or standing in the same position for long periods of time, poor posture, continuous lifting, pregnancy and obesity are some of the causes of QL trigger point pain.

Pain in the QL could be caused by poor posture, Occupational stresses such as prolonged sitting or standing at the workplace or continuous lifting activities, sedentary lifestyle, obesity or pregnancy.

The type and severity of pain can vary. Low back pain is often described as a deep ache, but it can also be felt as sharp and acute depending on the cause. Although the discomfort usually occurs at rest, it can get worse with movement. Lying, walking, standing, and rolling may aggravate the pain. Sharp pain may also be felt when sneezing or coughing. Quadratus lumborum pain can even interfere with daily activities such as walking and sitting.

Quadratus lumborum pain can become chronic. Long-term pain often impairs a person’s quality of life and well-being, and also affects them physically. People with chronic low back pain are more likely to experience anxiety and depression than those without chronic pain.

Also, if one part of the body is causing pain, other parts try to support the painful area. For example, if the quadratus lumborum is tight and painful, we may find that the person begins to twist or change their gait by changing their body posture. This changing posture can place an additional load on other parts of the body, such as the hips, further increasing the pain.

When working on this area in the massage space, the aim to free up the trigger points in the area as well as surrounding structures connected to the same ligament (sacrotuberous ligament) and iliopsoas muscle.

Tension can contribute to pain however weekness can also be a big contributor and it is also important to refer my clients to their PT or physiotherapy to work on strengthening the spine stabilisers and work on correct firing pattern of the trunk and hip by the right exercises (strengthening the posterior hip muscles) as well as showing the client the right stretching routine or working with a yoga instructor. ..

EXERCISE STRECH MASSAGE REPEAT