The Iliopsoas: The Missing Link to Lower Back and Hip Pain

Discover how to unearth the root of back pain and identify proper methods for releasing the iliopsoas' vital core muscle of the body to return power, ease, and fluidity to your patients. 

For many therapists, treating low back pain is the number one issue for their patients. While there are likely a myriad of causes for this pain, the biggest factor is the iliopsoas muscle. When the muscle becomes contracted due to injuries, poor posture, extended stints of sitting, or even stress, it can alter the biomechanics of the pelvis and lumbar, thoracic and even cervical vertebrae. Called the “hidden prankster's by authors Janet Travell and David Simons, this enigmatic muscle is the key to restoring power, ease, and fluidity to not only the low back but also to the rest of the body.  

Since the iliopsoas can be distorted simply by the ways we stand, sit, and even walk and ultimately affects our spine and pelvis, it is crucial we understand this muscle and the various ways we can bring balance and restoration to our patients. Peggy Lamb, MA, LMT, BCTMB, guides participants through various releasing techniques and stretching strategies for the iliopsoas and the secondary thigh flexors.