Let us consider our sacrum, the wedge-shaped bone positioned between our coccyx at the base and the lumbar spine above. The sacroiliac joints join and articulate with our pelvis allowing forward and backward rotational movements from the pelvic ‘wings’, rotation in the sacrum from side to side and coupled rotation of the lumbar.

At the risk of getting lost in the complexity of these fascinating coupled motions, suffice to say that the interplay of these structures and movements allow for efficient motion in walking and increasingly so when we run.
So, let us consider the stability component. If we were statuesque and like a building or when we stand still and are well balanced, we can rely on the weight from above, gravity and two complimentary shapes interlocking to maintain form, this holds true to provide stability in what is called ‘form’ closure.

As we move, keeping stable becomes more challenging. When we walk and balance on one leg, which we do briefly on every step there is a further need for stability as forces transmit from the upper body down and from the feet up- to the fulcrum of the sacrum.

Stability in movement is assisted by several ligaments, the sacrotuberous and long dorsal to name a couple of the main players and a network of muscles which co-contract to provide oblique or cross body support; namely the gluteus maximus (buttock) and latissimus dorsi (a large muscle of the back) on the opposite side via a sheet of connective tissue in the lower back. This is called ‘force closure’.

When we are healthy and functioning well, this happens automatically, yet often this is not the case; certain muscles in the chain can under/overwork resulting in pain and dysfunction.

Why might this be I hear you ask? For many people life involves extended periods of sitting at a desk or in a car. In both situations the hip flexors remain in a shortened position and guess what they shorten and tighten, which can pull the pelvis in to a forward position, the lumbar to a more extreme lordotic curve and pain results. Furthermore, tight hip flexors will inhibit the function of the glutes, the very muscle which works in tandem with the latissimus dorsi to create ‘force’ closure and stability in the S.I. joint.

If the glute is not stabilising from below, the lats will overwork from above which may cause tightness in the lower back. Further referred issues can occur up in the shoulder from these pulling forces with a relationship to the levator scapulae muscle.

To summarise, the body is an interconnected unit with ‘teams’ of muscles and ligaments which like to work in balance; disturb one element in the chain and problems can begin to surface.

Treatment: release the tight/ short muscles first, then strengthen the weak muscles and maintain flexibility with careful stretching/ yoga.

Consider what you do for hours every day, such as desk sitting or in the context of a physical job, what affect might a repeated activity have upon your body? From this information, a well informed stretching, or conditioning regime can begin to counteract any negative affects.

Seek advise from a health professional or trainer for to make best progress and be safe.
I am available for advice and booking relating to conditioning, yoga and sports massage.

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Go well. Will