One of the most consistent offenders when it comes to low back pain is not even a back muscle! The Quadratus Lumborum, also known as the QL is a muscle that attaches from the top of the hip to the 12th rib. It is located on the side of the body around the “love handle” area and consistently gives low back pain symptoms when it is not healthy. The QL allows side to side bending of the torso and is a fantastic lumbar stabilizer. It is often referred to as the “hip hiker” due to its ability to pull the hip up into the ribs and cause leg length issues and compression pain.

When this muscle gets shortened and tight, it can restrict movement, cause nagging/consistent pain, and really ruin your day. You can treat the QL with light stretching through side bending, but the most effective method is through bodywork and soft tissue therapy. Due to its precarious attachment onto the 12th rib, it is generally recommended that individuals avoid pressing too much on this area due to the potential for rib damage or dislocation.

A bodywork therapist can accurately isolate and treat this muscle with stretching, trigger point therapy, and other release techniques to get you back to doing the things you love.

Book an appointment at The FIX to see how we can help your low back pain!