The Quadratus Lumborum (QL) muscle is found on the lower part of the back region. This muscle supports the pelvic region and ribs. It is used in daily activities which include sitting, walking, and standing. Due to the involvement of this muscle in activities associated with movements like bending and tilting, it is often associated with back pain. This pain is referred to as QL pain.
QL pain arises from compression of the spine, nerves, discs, and associated muscles, particularly the QL muscles. This compression leads to muscle tightness and trigger points, which causes discomfort. This pain can be reduced by knowing the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and most importantly ways to overcome it.
Causes
The QL muscles’ main work is to support weak muscles. This supportive work makes the QL muscles over-reactive and tight. The QL muscles support the back and the pelvic muscles which in turn increases the workload on the QL muscles for body support. This is one of the major causes of QL pain.
Another cause of QL pain is recurrent movements such as twisting, bending, and bad positioning during lifting. These movements lead to muscle weakness and tightness. When muscles become weak and tight, trigger points build up. The points invariably lead to pain as a result of tight bands of muscles.
Shortness of one leg in comparison to the other is also a cause of QL pain. When the load on one leg is more than the other, it causes over activeness and tightness of muscles. Thus leading to the development of trigger points that end up causing pain. Improper straining of the pelvic also leads to QL pain. Muscle injuries or traumatic disorders from accidents can also affect the QL muscles.
Diagnosis and symptoms
Confiding in your doctor whenever you feel pain is the best. Doctors are in the best position to tell what the root cause of the pain is. During the examination, underlying ailments can also be discovered. You can find qualified physiotherapists at top physiotherapy clinics like; Awesome Physiotherapy Of Richmond Hill.
Quadratus Lumborum pain may range from slight to severe and later become chronic. It can start as a sharp pain in the lower region with a little discomfort and tightness. At times it can occur during rest which becomes severe with movement, sitting, and standing.
QL pain may become chronic after experiencing the pain mildly for a long period. This can hinder an individual from carrying out day to day activities like walking, sitting, and standing. Should you find yourself in such a case, a qualified physiotherapist should be consulted. Failure to do this may lead to a permanent defect in posture.
Treatment
Early diagnosis is the fastest way to cure back pain. Listed below are some of the tips for relieving QL pain;
- Heat and Ice
Applying heat or ice to the affected area for about a quarter of an hour helps to reduce the pain. it eliminates muscle spasms for the time being.
- Massage
Proper massage of the surface area is an effective means of reducing the pain. QL pain can be disturbing, a visit to a certified physician will go a long way as they have detailed knowledge on how to solve the problem.
- Regular Movement
Frequent and continuous movement helps in reducing the pain. This does not allow QL pains to aggravate. For instance, if your job involves long hours of sitting, Endeavour to take breaks for a quick walk or a cup of coffee. Doing this frequently helps in relaxing your muscles.
- Stretches
Stretches are a good way to reduce the tightness of QL muscles. Depending on the nature of your work and schedule, a physiotherapist will advise you on the best type of stretch to engage in.
- Dry Needling
Dry needling involves the insertion of tiny needles into the body. It has proven over the decade to be an effective way of reducing muscle tightness. It also helps to relax irritable muscles and trigger points.
QL pain can also be reduced with regular workout sessions. Exercise patterns may be recommended for an individual. This may involve going to a fitness center.
Taking note of daily activities that can cause QL pain is also very important. To relieve QL pains, a visit to a physiotherapist is the best treatment process. They will help you come up with a detailed plan involving workout sessions and other hands-off treatment methods.
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