05/14/2024
Another spot to look for low back pain
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I'm back! Today we will be talking about the psoas, which is actually a group comprised of three muscles. The psoas major, psoas minor and iliacus are deep muscles that act as hip flexors.
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The psoas major originates on the underside of the spine, near the last few thoracic vertebrae through the lumbar vertebrae. It then curves downward and inserts upon the femur.
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Similar to the major, the minor psoas muscle originates on the underside of the spine, near the last few thoracic vertebrae through the lumbar. The psoas minor curves laterally (outside) and inserts to the illium of the pelvis.
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The iliacus does not attach to the spine. Instead, this muscle originates on the ilium of the pelvis and inserts to the femur.
All three of these muscles control movement through the hip joint. They flex the hip and abduct (externally rotate) the hindlimb. These muscles are often a contributing factor to lower back and hip pain. Unfortunately, they are also very deep and difficult for bodyworkers to access. Stretching and strengthening exercises are some of the best ways to help horses with hip flexor dysfunction.
