18/07/2025
Tight psoas muscles, also known as the iliopsoas, refer to a state where these deep core muscles are shortened, contracted, and inflexible, often leading to pain and discomfort in the lower back, hips, and groin. This tightness can result from various factors, including prolonged sitting, overuse, physical and emotional trauma, or even stress.
Here's a more detailed explanation:
What are the psoas muscles?
The psoas muscles, specifically the psoas major and psoas minor, are a group of muscles that connect the lower spine to the legs. They are crucial for hip flexion, trunk stability, and maintaining posture.
What causes tightness?
Prolonged sitting: Spending long hours sitting can shorten and tighten the psoas muscles.
Overuse: Athletes or individuals who engage in activities that require repetitive hip flexion (like running or dancing) may experience psoas tightness due to muscle strain.
Physical trauma: Accidents or injuries can lead to muscle spasms and tightness in the psoas.
Emotional trauma: The psoas muscle can hold onto stress and tension from past experiences.
Poor posture: Weak core muscles can cause the psoas to compensate, leading to tightness.
What are the symptoms of a tight psoas?
Lower back pain:
Tight psoas muscles can pull the pelvis forward, creating an arch in the lower back and causing pain.
Hip and groin pain:
Tightness can restrict hip movement and cause pain in the hip and groin area.
Limited hip mobility:
Difficulty with hip flexion and extension.
Pain when standing up or walking:
The psoas muscle plays a role in these movements, and tightness can make them painful.
Changes in posture:
A tight psoas can lead to an anterior pelvic tilt (forward tilt of the pelvis).
Radiating pain down the leg:
In some cases, the tightness can irritate nerves, causing pain to radiate down the leg.
How to address psoas tightness?
Stretching:
Gentle stretching can help to lengthen the psoas muscle, but it's important to do it correctly.
Strengthening:
Strengthening the core and surrounding muscles can help support the psoas and reduce strain.
Movement:
Regular movement and exercise can help improve blood flow to the muscles and prevent stiffness.
Stress management:
Techniques like deep breathing, yoga, or mindfulness can help release tension in the psoas.
Professional help:
If the tightness is severe or persistent, it's best to consult with a physical therapist or other healthcare professional.