Tight Hamstrings and Low Back Pain

Low back pain is a commonly treated ailment in physical therapy. There are many contributing factors that cause low back pain, one of which is tight hamstrings. The hamstrings are a group of 3 muscles located on the posterior (back) of the thighs responsible for bending the knee and extending the hip, bringing the thigh back behind you.  When the hamstrings are tight, they pull the back of the pelvis downward, flattening out the natural curve of the lumbar spine. The flattening of the low back compromises the body’s ability to hold itself upright.  

Strengthening & stretching of the hamstring muscles can alleviate tension on the low back and relieve pain. At Ability Rehab we will evaluate the cause of your low back pain by assessing your flexibility, strength, body mechanics, gait and more, to determine a treatment plan that is tailored to your individual needs. Treatment techniques for back pain include, but are not limited to: manual therapy, joint mobilizations, stretching & strengthening exercises, massage and postural training.

P.S. To learn more about back pain, join us for “Ouch! My Aching Back” Thurs. Aug 15th at 4:30pm; a speaking engagement presented by Julie Hom, MPT, NCS, Owner. PLEASE RSVP.