What is the Quadratus?
What is the Quadratus?
The word quadratus comes from the latin word “quadrus” meaning square while lumborum comes from the latin word “lumbus” for “loin.” The quadratus lumborum (QL) is the deepest abdominal muscle. It’s located in your lower back on either side of the lumbar spine.
What is the function of the quadratus?
Function. Essentially, the quadratus lumborum contributes to the stabilization and movement of the spine and the pelvis. A bilateral contraction leads to an extension of the lumbar vertebral column. When the muscle is only activated on one side, the trunk is bent towards that direction (lateral flexion).
Where is the quadratus femoris?
Quadratus femoris is a paired, rectangular-shaped muscle of the gluteal region. It is part of the group of muscles known as the lateral, or external, rotators of the thigh.
What is QL?
The quadratus lumborum (QL) is your deepest abdominal muscle. It’s found in your lower back, between the top of your pelvis and your lowest rib. The QL supports good posture and helps stabilize your spine when you bend to the side or extend your lower back.
What is the action of the quadratus femoris?
The main action of the quadratus femoris muscle is external (lateral) rotation of the thigh.
What is quadratus Lumborum syndrome?
Quadratus Lumborum is the deepest muscle of the lumbar region. Extends from pelvis to last rib. It contracts while sitting, walking and standing and is therefore very susceptible to pain formation. Pain is usually caused by overuse, but can sometimes be caused by weakness and tension.
How should I sleep with QL pain?
- Sleep on your side with a pillow between your knees. Share on Pinterest.
- Sleep on your side in the fetal position. Share on Pinterest.
- Sleep on your stomach with a pillow under your abdomen. Share on Pinterest.
- Sleep on your back with a pillow under your knees.
- Sleep on your back in a reclined position.
Why is it called quadratus femoris?
Muscle names typically are derived from Latin words. The word quadratus represents the fact that the muscle is shaped like a quadrilateral. The second word, femoris comes from the word femur, meaning the thigh bone in the upper leg. So this muscle is named for its rectangular shape and its location by the femur.
What is quadratus lumborum fatigue?
Since it connects the spine and the pelvis it has the capability of extending the lower back when contracting bilaterally. When the lower fibers of the erector spine are weak or repressed it causes pain too. Constant contractions during continuous seating result in overuse of the Quadratus Lumborum, therefore, causing a muscle fatigue.
What is the shape of the quadratus in the human body?
Its shape is irregular, but is generally quadriangular, which is the reason why it is described as ‘quadratus’ in latin. Besides the spine, it also attaches to the twelwth rib, which makes it very important for stabilization of both vertebral column and the rib during various movements of the spine.
How do you activate the quadratus lumborum?
Engage your core and activate the QL to allow it to help you move back to your starting posture. Because the primary purpose of the quadratus lumborum is lateral flexion, I recommend side-bending exercises.
