Trigger Point Therapy - Erector Spinae

Treating Erector Spinae Trigger Points - Dr. Jonathan Kuttner M.D.

Over 30 million Americans experience lower back pain, and it is one of the most common reasons for missed work and the second most common reason for a doctor’s visit

The Erector Spinae muscle actually consists of three columns of muscles, the Iliocostalis, Longissimus, and Spinalis, each  running parallel on either outer side of the vertebra and extending from the lower back of the skull all the way down to the Pelvis.

The Erector Spinae provides the resistance that assists in the control action of bending forward at the waist as well as acting as powerful extensors to promote the return of the back to the erect position.

During full flexion (i.e., when touching fingertips to floor), the Erector Spinae Muscles are relaxed and strain is borne entirely by the ligaments of the back.

On the reversal of the movement, the Erector Spinae in conjunction with the  Hamstrings and Gluteus Maximus muscles (buttocks) is primarily responsible for the extension of the back (straightening of the spine) as well as more specific movements such as the extension of the neck and sidewards movement of the head.

 Erector Spinae Tutorial 

Erector Spinae - Typical Trigger Point Sites

Trigger Point Therapy - Erector Spinae

Trigger Points in the erector spinae muscles are commonly associated with lower back pain.

Over 30 million Americans experience lower back pain, and it is one of the most common reasons for missed work and the second most common reason for a doctor’s visit.

Recent studies have shown that shoe insoles, back belts, ergonomic interventions, or education alone had little effect in reducing symptoms, but that exercise (including stretching and strengthening) made a significant difference in almost 50% of cases.

Part of the reason for this is that exercise can help dissipate trigger points, and when combined with trigger point therapy can provide extremely effective relief, both short and long term.