Lower Back Pain

Pain in the upper glutes and lower back can be caused by various factors, including muscle imbalances, poor posture, or overuse. When addressing this type of pain pattern, it is important to focus on strengthening and stretching specific muscles. Clinical remedial massage therapy can help greatly and this is something I offer in my clinic.

Here are some key muscles and areas to focus attention on: 1. Gluteal Muscles: Strengthening the gluteal muscles, specifically the gluteus maximus and gluteus medius, can help support the lower back and reduce pain in the upper glutes and lower back. 2. Hamstrings: Tight or weak hamstrings can contribute to lower back pain. Stretching and strengthening the hamstrings can be beneficial. 3. Hip Flexors: The hip flexor muscles, including the psoas and iliacus, can become tight from prolonged sitting and contribute to lower back discomfort. Stretching and flexibility exercises can help. 4. Core Muscles: Strengthening the core muscles, including the transverse abdominis and obliques, can provide stability and support to the lower back. 5. Quadratus Lumborum: This muscle connects the lower spine to the pelvis and can be a source of pain. Strengthening and stretching the quadratus lumborum can be beneficial. 6. Erector Spinae: These muscles run along the spine and help with back extension in opposition to the rectus abdominis muscles. Strengthening them can improve posture and alleviate lower back discomfort. 7. Piriformis: The piriformis muscle, located in the buttocks, can cause pain when it's tight or irritated. Stretching and soft tissue massage therapy can help. 8. Latissimus Dorsi: These muscles can indirectly contribute to lower back pain if they are tight. Stretching and mobility work can be beneficial.

Incorporate a combination of stretching and strengthening exercises for these muscle groups to address pain in the upper glutes and lower back. Please note that strengthening means being aware to move gently and build up; the best types of exercise are usually functional in nature, that is those that can be used in everyday life. Sitting all day is a huge issue in our society so get moving first off, more often. Additionally, consider improving posture (Alexander Technique can work for this along with Pilates and some forms of yoga - posture is not about rigidity and standing to attention) and maintaining a regular movement routine to prevent future discomfort.

Please note if you have any new pain especially if it persists or worsens or does not change when lying down or resting then it is important to consult your GP for a more personalised assessment and diagnosis.