Archived newsletters - Therapy - Condition/Symptom

The Psoas Muscle

What is so special about this muscle, pronounced Soas that makes it worth your attention? Where is it?

• The Psoas is the only muscle to connect your spine directly to your legs.

• It joins with the Illiacus, the fan shaped muscle lining the pelvis.

• The diaphragm, the muscle of breathing, attaches at the same point on the spine as the Psoas, as does the lower end of the large, powerful trapezius muscle covering much of your back.

The combination of the Illiacus and Psoas, often referred to as the Ilio-psoas has a vital influence on the natural mobility of your pelvis and inhibition of this self-centering mechanism can lead to problems. Its action on the spine can be likened to the guy ropes on a tent pole; to maintain an upright posture without unnecessary strain. Muscles should not be under tension but should be toned ready for movement.

Linked to our primary instinct for survival and protection the Psoas responds immediately to a potentially dangerous situation. Known as the ‘Fight or Flight’ muscle, it initiates the body curling into a ball if a threat is present. This instinctual rolling forward of the body is to protect the vital organs and once the threat has passed the Psoas muscle needs to release and lengthen. Animals will discharge the tension by shaking themselves vigorously however, because of social conditioning this is not usually the case in humans. Any assault to the body such as physical injury or emotional trauma can lead to compensation and holding patterns in the structure.

The Psoas does not have to experience trauma as such in order for it to be tight and shortened. Sitting at a desk or driving for long periods, collapsed posture and physcial and emotional tension can also lead to one or more of numerous signs of a distressed Psoas.

These include:

• stiff, aching low back, often noticed when first get out of bed.

• tilted pelvis

• restricted hip mobility

• sciatica

• gynaecological problems

• poor posture

• curvature of the spine

• unexplained anxiety or fear

• breathing difficulties

• low energy

‘Self-help’ for your Psoas.

It is worthwhile literally ‘putting your feet up’ in the constructive rest position. Lay on something firm and flat such as the floor with padding, say a blanket or duvet, to cushion your back. Have about an inch thick support under your head and your knees bent. In this position the spine is allowed to return to neutral, the discs rehydrate and resume their natural size and the all important Psoas begins to release and find its own resting length.

This procedure should only be done within your comfort zone and either adapt the routine as necessary or seek professional guidance. Having feet resting on a chair is sometimes found to be more comfortable.

Seeking help to release your psoas.

The Psoas must be treated with respect.

Because of its deep location it can be elusive to the hands of the therapist and so escape effective treatment. Attempts to release it by heavy invasive procedures can re-traumatise it thereby increasing dysfunction throughout the body.

International body-worker and trainer Liz Koch (see www.coreawareness.com) has spent many years gaining an in depth understanding of the complexities of the Psoas muscle. She has developed non-intrusive ways of working to release the Psoas which in turn can often bring about profound change to both your physical and emotional well-being.

Martin Grasby has studied with Liz and incorporates her principals in his work with clients.