04/09/2026
🌿 How Seasonal Allergies Can Affect Your Lower Back (Yes, Really!)
I have had multiple clients coming in the last couple of weeks with low back pain on one side or the other and I thought it would be worth sharing this with all of you!
Most people think of sneezing, itchy eyes, and congestion when they hear about seasonal allergies, but your lower back can feel it too.
The quadratus lumborum (QL) is a deep muscle that stabilizes your spine and helps with breathing. While it’s not directly impacted by Seasonal Allergies, allergies can still affect it in surprising ways:
🔹 Breathing changes
Congestion can lead to shallow or mouth breathing, causing the QL to work overtime to stabilize your ribs—leading to tightness or fatigue.
🔹 Frequent coughing & sneezing
Repeated forceful movements can strain your core and lower back muscles, including the QL.
🔹 Posture shifts
Feeling run down? You’re more likely to slouch or move differently, increasing stress on your lower back.
🔹 Fatigue & inflammation
Allergies can make your body feel tired and more sensitive to discomfort, making muscle soreness more noticeable.
💡 Bottom line….
Allergies don’t directly target your lower back, but they can create the perfect conditions for QL tightness and discomfort.
If your back feels off during allergy season, your sinuses might be part of the story.
Here are a few options to help relieve tension:
•Rolling a tennis ball or trigger point ball over the. area
• Stretching
• Massage
• Acupuncture
• and even a warm rice pack or heating pad