What is Psoas Syndrome and How Can Physical Therapy Help?

Psoas syndrome is a rare and often misdiagnosed condition that presents itself as chronic lower back pain. This condition occurs when the psoas muscle becomes injured and anyone can get it, but runners and athletes are more likely to get injured. The psoas muscles are up to 16 inches long and extend from each side of your spine to connect to your upper thigh bone. You use these muscles every day for common activities like standing, running, walking, jumping, etc.

Psoas syndrome is a condition characterized by the irritation or inflammation of the psoas muscle, a deep muscle located in the lower back and connecting to the hips. It can lead to lower back pain, hip discomfort, and limited mobility. This syndrome often results from prolonged sitting, poor posture, or overuse of the muscle, and is typically managed through rest, stretching, and physical therapy.

Psoas Syndrome Symptoms

Psoas syndrome symptoms can include:

  • Chronic lower back pain
  • Pain when sitting or getting up
  • Restricted hip socket
  • Lower back tension
  • Difficulty standing in an upright position
  • Pelvic pain

You might feel muscle tightness that can make moving difficult and painful. Aside from the pain, a tight psoas can result in poor posture, scoliosis, restricted breathing, lower spine stress fracture, and difficulty standing upright. Muscle “tightness” may feel like you have trouble moving normally or you might feel pain as well. Certain factors can result in tight psoas, including sitting and being sedentary for long periods. If you have to sit while working for hours you should get up from time to time so you can stretch and move around.

low back pain
PSOAS syndrome can cause one to have low back pain

How is Psoas Syndrome Treated With Physical Therapy?

Your physical therapist will be able to assign exercises like stretching and lower-impact dynamic exercises. In the meantime, you should try not to sit for lengthy periods of time and always have back support; it’s recommended that you move around at least once an hour. If you are a runner or power walker, you should alternate workouts so you don’t strain your muscle. The main takeaway is to destress and relax by getting a massage, enjoying a hot soak, and support your back when needed.

Physical therapy exercises are designed to strengthen and stretch the psoas muscle and allow your body to heal. It’s important that you get the help of a professional who can guide you through these exercises, otherwise, you may hurt yourself and increase your injury. Your physical therapist may include ultrasound, manipulative treatment, and possibly even muscle injections.

Get the Pain Relief You Need in Everett, Wa

People with psoas syndrome can benefit from gentle exercises and stretching to provide pain relief, strengthen their hip muscles, and increase mobility. Your physical therapist can give you several exercises to incorporate into your daily routine. If you think you have psoas issues, contact a physical therapist to get some muscle relief techniques. For those in Everett, please reach out to us today: 425-347-8614.

 

Sources:

openai.com

Summary
What is Psoas Syndrome and How Can Physical Therapy Help?
Article Name
What is Psoas Syndrome and How Can Physical Therapy Help?
Description
Psoas syndrome is a rare and often misdiagnosed condition that presents itself as chronic lower back pain. This condition occurs when the psoas muscle becomes injured and anyone can get it, but runners and athletes are more likely to get injured.
Author
Everett Spine and Rehab
Everett Spine & Rehab
Publisher Logo

Leave a comment

Skip to content