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Understanding Back Pain: Trouble Maker No. 4

Anatomy, Physiology, and Psychosomatics (Bodynamic System)


A man is sitting at a desk with a laptop, holding his lower back with a contorted face, indicating tension in the psoas major muscle.

Back pain is a common problem and the psoas major muscle often plays a key role. This section examines the anatomy, physiology, and psychosomatic influences of the psoas major muscle to understand its role in back pain and strategies for effective management.


Anatomical illustration of the lumbar muscles, showing the psoas major, psoas minor and iliacus, and their position in relation to the skeletal system.

Important muscles involved: Psoas Major


Mechanical Reason: The Psoas Major muscle connects the lower spine to the femur and is crucial for hip flexion and stabilizing the lower back. Prolonged sitting, poor posture, or repetitive activities can cause the Psoas Major to become tight or overused, leading to strain and discomfort in the lower back (Cleveland Clinic, Spine-health).


Physiological Reaction: A tight Psoas Major muscle can pull on the lower spine, increasing the lumbar lordosis (inward curvature of the lower spine) and putting additional stress on the lower back muscles. This can result in lower back pain, stiffness, and a reduced range of motion. The muscle may also develop trigger points, which are sensitive areas that can cause referred pain to other parts of the body (Cleveland Clinic, Spine-health).



Psoas Major in Psychosomatic Developmental Phases


8 Months to 2.5 Years (Autonomy): During this developmental phase, children start doing things independently, forming close bonds with family, and feeling secure. They show their likes and dislikes while staying connected with loved ones. This period is critical as toddlers learn to control their bodies and emotions better, becoming aware of their feelings and needs, such as hunger or tiredness. Their muscles, including the Psoas Major, are very active as they crawl and begin to walk, helping them grow strong and stable. The development and use of the Psoas Major during this time lay the foundation for future physical stability and emotional resilience.



Dos and Don'ts When the Psoas Major Muscles Contribute to Back Pain


Dos:

  • Stretch Regularly: Perform gentle stretches that target the Psoas Major to help release tension and improve flexibility.


  • Strengthen Core Muscles: Engage in exercises that strengthen the core muscles, providing better support for the lower back and reducing the strain on the Psoas Major.


  • Maintain Proper Posture: Ensure good posture while sitting and standing to avoid putting unnecessary stress on the Psoas Major.


Don'ts:

  • Avoid Prolonged Sitting: Try not to sit for long periods without taking breaks to stand up, stretch, and move around.


  • Skip Intense Activities Without Warm-Up: Avoid engaging in intense physical activities without a proper warm-up, as this can increase the risk of straining the Psoas Major.


  • Neglect Pain Signals: Don’t ignore persistent pain or discomfort in the lower back; seek professional advice to address the underlying issues properly.


Understanding the role of the Psoas Major in back pain can help in developing effective strategies for managing and preventing discomfort, ensuring a healthier and more stable back.



Conclusion

Understanding the mechanical and physiological reasons behind the strain and injury of these muscles can help in developing targeted prevention and treatment strategies. Regular exercise, proper posture, and ergonomic adjustments are essential in maintaining muscle health and preventing lower back pain. Incorporating manual and psychological therapies can further enhance treatment outcomes, addressing both physical and mental aspects of back pain (Cleveland Clinic, Spine-health).


For more detailed information, you can refer to the resources from Spine-health and the Cleveland Clinic.


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Source: Body Encyclopedia - A Guide to the Psychological Functions of the Muscular System by Lisbeth Marcher, Sonja Fich.

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