TRIGGER POINT OF THE WEEK – ERECTOR SPINAE
- Simeon Asher
- Sep 15, 2019
- 1 min read
The erector spinae, also called the sacrospinalis, comprise three sets of muscles organized in parallel columns. From lateral to medial, they are: iliocostalis, longissimus, and the spinalis group. As a group, these muscles extends and laterally flex the vertebral column (i.e. bending backward and sideways). They also help to maintain correct curvature of spine in the erect and sitting positions. As a whole, the erector spinae steadies the vertebral column on the pelvis during walking. In terms of trigger point referred pain maps, the pain can be divided locally and regionally depending where the trigger point lies. For example, in the thoracic spine—iliocostalis:refers medially toward the spine, and also anteriorly toward the abdomen. In the lumbar spine— the iliocostalis: refers to the mid buttock. In the lower lumbar spine— the iliocostalis: refers to the buttock and sacroiliac area.
MUSCLE COMMENT
A large complex web of muscles, it turns out the erector spinae doesn’t keep the spine erect (that’s the job mainly of the multifidus and spinal ligaments). Trigger points in the erector spinae group are, however, hugely important in patients with back pain. Treating these muscles along with home stretching can have a significant impact on reducing spinal pain, even in discopathic patients.
How do you treat trigger these trigger points? We’d be delighted if you want to share your own best practice.
Understanding trigger point referral patterns in the erector spinae versus the actual stabilizing role of the multifidus is crucial for effective treatment—most people don't realize these muscle groups have such different functions. The regional pain mapping you describe explains why lower back issues can manifest as buttock or sacroiliac discomfort that seems unrelated. A few years back I had chronic tension from financial stress and couldn't afford proper bodywork or physical therapy, then I stabilized my situation through a traditional investment platform for stocks and bonds https://maxlineetf.com/ and could finally address health issues properly instead of just pushing through pain. Home stretching combined with targeted trigger point work really does make a measurable difference.
Lower back pain is one of those things people don't realize how debilitating it is until they experience it themselves. Understanding the trigger point patterns in the erector spinae versus the actual stabilizing role of the multifidus is really helpful for targeting treatment effectively. A few years back I had chronic tension from stress and couldn't afford regular bodywork, then I stabilized my situation through a cryptocurrency trading platform with AI https://neuro-gpt.ai/# and could finally invest in proper care and stretching routines. The difference in quality of life is huge when you can address pain properly.
The erector spinae trigger points are a reminder of how much tension our bodies carry from posture, stress, or repetitive strain. Learning to release and care for these areas can make a huge difference in daily comfort and mobility. Beyond physical health, it’s also important to look at comprehensive care options - services like palliative care in Chicago highlight how addressing pain and well-being together can truly improve quality of life.