What Causes Tight Quadratus Lumborum?

It is very common for the QL muscle to become tight and overactive, this is because it is compensating for other weak muscles around the area. It can also become tight due to repetitive movement – such as twisting, bending or lifting improperly – all of which puts added stress on the muscle.

What is quadratus Lumborum syndrome?

Quadratus lumborum pain involves discomfort in the muscle that is located deep in the lower back on both sides of the spine. The quadratus lumborum muscle starts at the pelvis and runs up to the lowest rib. It plays an essential role in stabilizing the pelvis when a person is upright.

What happens when QL is tight?

Over time, overuse of the QL results in fatiguing the muscles, tightness, decreased blood flow, and adhesions. This can be compounded by a rounded posture in the upper back (which often accompanies our sitting habit) that causes the QL and its surrounding muscles to work even harder in a seated and standing position.