The psoas muscle, often referred to as the “core of the core,” plays a critical role in stabilizing the spine, facilitating movement, and maintaining overall posture. Despite its importance, this deep-seated muscle is frequently overlooked in discussions about health and fitness. Understanding the psoas muscle’s function, its impact on the body, and how to care for it can help you prevent pain and improve mobility. Discover how Dr. Eric Leitman at Complete Performance Chiropractic can help you optimize your psoas muscle health through personalized care.

What is the Psoas Muscle?

The psoas muscle is a deep, paired muscle that connects the lower spine to the upper thigh. It is part of the iliopsoas group, which includes the iliacus muscle. Together, these muscles are responsible for hip flexion and play a key role in maintaining posture and spinal stability.

The psoas muscle is unique because it is the only muscle that directly connects the spine to the legs, making it essential for activities such as walking, running, and sitting. However, prolonged sitting or repetitive movements can cause the psoas to become tight or weak, leading to discomfort and postural imbalances.

The Importance of the Psoas Muscle

• Postural Support: The psoas stabilizes the spine and pelvis, supporting an upright posture and preventing lower back strain.
• Movement: It enables key movements like lifting the legs, walking, and running by flexing the hip joint.
• Spinal Health: A healthy psoas muscle reduces stress on the lumbar spine and prevents compensatory muscle imbalances.
• Core Connection: The psoas works in harmony with other core muscles, contributing to overall core strength and stability.

Common Issues Associated with the Psoas Muscle

• Tightness: Prolonged sitting or poor posture can cause the psoas to tighten, leading to lower back pain, hip discomfort, and limited mobility.
• Weakness: A weak psoas muscle can result in instability in the pelvis and spine, increasing the risk of injuries.
• Imbalances: Overuse or underuse of the psoas can create muscle imbalances, affecting posture and movement patterns.
• Referred Pain: Dysfunction in the psoas can cause referred pain in areas like the lower back, hips, and knees.

How to Care for Your Psoas Muscle

Maintaining a healthy psoas muscle involves a combination of stretching, strengthening, and body awareness. Here are some key steps to take:

• Stretching: Incorporate stretches like the lunge stretch or bridge pose to lengthen and release tension in the psoas.
• Strengthening: Exercises like leg lifts, planks, and core stabilization drills can strengthen the psoas and surrounding muscles.
• Posture Awareness: Practice good posture while sitting, standing, and moving to reduce strain on the psoas muscle.
• Chiropractic Care: Regular adjustments and soft tissue therapy can address imbalances and improve the function of the psoas muscle.
• Restorative Activities: Activities like yoga and Pilates help maintain flexibility and strength in the psoas while promoting relaxation.

How Chiropractic Care Can Help

Chiropractors are trained to assess and treat dysfunction in the psoas muscle, addressing its impact on the spine and overall movement patterns. At Complete Performance Chiropractic, Dr. Eric Leitman uses gentle adjustments, targeted exercises, and soft tissue therapy to improve psoas muscle function and alleviate related discomfort.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the signs of a tight psoas muscle?

Common signs include lower back pain, hip stiffness, difficulty standing upright, and discomfort after sitting for extended periods.

Can chiropractic care relieve psoas-related pain?

Yes, chiropractic care can address the root cause of psoas dysfunction, relieving pain and restoring balance to the affected areas.

How often should I stretch my psoas muscle?

Stretching your psoas daily or several times a week is beneficial, especially if you sit for long periods or engage in repetitive movements.

Is a tight psoas muscle preventable?

Yes, maintaining good posture, staying active, and incorporating regular stretches and strengthening exercises can help prevent tightness in the psoas muscle.

Take Care of Your Psoas Muscle Today

If you’re experiencing discomfort or tightness in your lower back or hips, consider scheduling an appointment with Dr. Eric Leitman at Complete Performance Chiropractic. Dr. Leitman and his team will create a personalized care plan to address psoas muscle issues, helping you move freely and feel your best.