Lower Crossed Syndrome

Have you ever wondered why hamstring injuries are so common in athletes and runners? This problem can be a manifestation of the LOWER CROSSED SYNDROME.

This is a predictable condition that is basically a change in the normal length and strength of the muscles in the lower back, pelvis and upper legs. It is called Lower Crossed Syndrome because of the area it affects and due to the fact that there is also an upper crossed syndrome.

Lower Crossed Syndrome happens in all walks of life and is not unique to any certain form of work or activity. I see it commonly in runners and also in those that sit most of the day while working. Some may not know that they have this imbalance because the person is not active enough out of work for it to reveal itself.

This muscle imbalance may also manifest itself in other types of issues like lower back pain, quad strains, Iliotibial Band Syndrome and knee pain over the outer aspect of the knee.

The most common findings are weakness in the Abdominals, Glutes, and some of the Quads. Tightness or muscle shortening in the lower back, hip flexors, hamstrings and Rectus Femoris (the quad muscle that goes from the front of the pelvis to the knee cap) are also noted commonly. The severity of this condition will vary depending on the general condition and physical activities of the person.

The condition can be diagnosed through a functional screen of muscle length and strength. The Community Orthopedic Rehabilitation clinic at the Sports Core offers a screen and/or running evaluation. Specific issues can be addressed and normally requires only an exercise program to correct the muscle imbalance issues. Of course it is always important that the exam includes an evaluation of the lower spine, pelvis, hip and knee joints as the sources of pain or dysfunction.

Rick Schurman PT, Cert. MDT, TPI

Rick Schurman PT, Cert MDT is a physical therapist practicing at the Community Orthopedic Rehabilitation clinic at the Sports Core in Kohler, WI. He has over 30 years of experience and is credentialed in the McKenzie Method. He has golf specific specialty training from Back to Golf, Carmel, CA; Fitfore Golf University of Calgary, Canada and from the Titleist Performance Institute, Oceanside, CA.

The clinic phone number is 920-783-6646.

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