What is Lower Crossed Syndrome??

Today a majority of people in the workforce are dealing with chronic low back pain, and have seen numerous physicians regarding the issue with no resolution of pain. A highly missed diagnosis for low back pain is Lower Crossed Syndrome. A Dr. Vladamir Janda, a physician in the Czech Republic first documented a distict pattern of muscle imbalances due to prolonged static postures, such as sitting at a desk all day. When you sit in a chair for eight hours a day, in time, your hip flexors will become shortened or tight. Your brain will automatically start to shut down or inhibit your glute muscles (butt) which are on the opposite side. Since your glute muscles are not working properly your body will recruit synergistic muscles such as the hamstrings and lower back muscles to assist the glutes in performing hip extension. In other words, your start to recruit muscles that were not intended to be used for specific actions such as walking, running, or any type of strenous activity. Common side effects of Lower Crossed Syndrome are excessive arching or rounding of your lower back , a weak stomach area or core, and a flat gluteal region due to weakness. This combination is very common and causes a good majority of low back pain. Active Release Technique performed at Willow Bend Sports & Spine Center is the gold standard for correcting this common problem, as well as strenghening certain muscles either through Physical Therapy or at your local gym. If you have any questions regarding this condition please contact us at 972-312-9310 to schedule an appointment.

Dr. Jeff Eidsvig, ART,TPI-CGFI