Treating Trigger Points in the Quadratus Lumborum
Quadratus Lumborum
Treating Trigger Points in the Quadratus Lumborum - Dr. Jonathan Kuttner M.D.
Lower Back Pain (LBP) and especially chronic LBP is often associated with trigger points in the Quadratus Lumborum (QL) muscles.
The QL is small muscle that punches way above its weight.
The QL laterally flexes the vertebral column; fixes the 12th rib during deep respiration (e.g. helps stabilize diaphragm for singers exercising voice control); and helps extend the lumbar part of the vertebral column, and provide it with lateral stability.
Being such an active muscle, trigger points form in the QL for a whole host of reasons including repetitive strain injuries brought on by common daily activities such as gardening, or housework.
Sleeping on soft or worn-out mattresses can be another common cause.
Trigger points in the QL are also typically associated with disc problems in the lower back, or facet or spinal joint issues (such as degeneration, sacroiliac joint issues, and spondylolisthesis or spondylolysis in the lumbar spine).
Referred Pain Patterns
Trigger points in the QL are known to create several “zones” of referred pain to the lower abdomen, sacroiliac joint (upper pole), lower buttock, lower back, upper hip, and greater trochanter.
Massage and Trigger Point Therapy
Trigger point therapy can work wonders for treating trigger points in the QL and may provide both short and long term relief from a number of painful conditions.
This trigger point therapy blog is intended to be used for information purposes only and is not intended to be used for medical diagnosis or treatment or to substitute for a medical diagnosis and/or treatment rendered or prescribed by a physician or competent healthcare professional. This information is designed as educational material, but should not be taken as a recommendation for treatment of any particular person or patient. Always consult your physician if you think you need treatment or if you feel unwell.
Disclaimer
The information in this article is intended for educational purposes within the context of continuing education for massage therapists, continuing education for athletic trainers, continuing education for physical therapists, continuing education for chiropractors, and continuing education for rehabilitation professionals. It is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Although every effort has been made to ensure accuracy and reflect current understanding at the time of publication, practitioners must always work within the legal scope of their professional practice and follow all regional regulatory guidelines.
Hands-on techniques and clinical applications described in this material should only be performed by appropriately trained and licensed professionals. Individuals experiencing pain or symptoms should be referred to a qualified healthcare provider for assessment. Niel Asher Education is not responsible for any injury, loss, or damage resulting from the use or misuse of the information provided in this content.
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