Lower Crossed Syndrome

When some people find it difficult to stand upright for a long time or have low back pain with the symptoms going down the back of leg or front of the thigh, they considered it to be ‘sciatica’ but there is every possibility that they may be suffering from Lower Crossed Syndrome (LCS) or Pelvic Crossed Syndrome (PCS). Passive lifestyle, excessive working hours at a desk or computer, improper posture or even improper weight lifting can lead to LCS. What is the Lower Crossed Syndrome? Lower Crossed Syndrome is typically a muscular imbalance syndrome, which occurs when muscles are shortened or lengthened in relation to each other. This deformity is characterized by the tightness of the thoraco-lumbar extensors in the lower back, rectus femoris in the back of the thigh and iliopas that passes from the low back to the front of the hip. Joint dysfunction at some particular points is created due to this imbalance. Lower Crossed Syndrome is also defined as an abnormal adapted posture of lower back. This imbalance is also characterized by the anterior tilt of the pelvis, increased curve in the lumbar spine and tight hamstrings. It also impairs the sporting efficiency of sportspersons as their core stability and stride length decreases due to the deformity. What are the potential causes of Lower Crossed Syndrome? LCS or lower crossed syndrome is a ‘silent’ disorder as it takes years to develop and displays no symptoms initially. Several factors contribute towards developing this deformity including: Previous injury to joints, ligaments or muscles in the lower backrnShortening or tightening of muscles from repetitive activitiesrnProlonged sittingrnLack of the core stability of the spinernPoor posturernWeak and inhibited gluteals and abdominal musclesrnMuscular imbalance in the low-back, legs, buttocks and abdominal regionrnWhat are the signs and symptoms of Lower Crossed Syndrome? Lower Crossed Syndrome results into specific postural changes including: Facet joint strainsrnPelvic and hip dysfunctionrnForward tilted pelvisrnKnee hyperextensionrnLateral leg rotation (outward rotation)rnLateral lumbar shiftrnProtruding abdomenrnFlexed hips and lack of buttock musculaturernWhat are the physical therapy treatments suggested to treat Lower Crossed Syndrome (LCS)? Physical therapy treatment for LCS or Lower Crossed Syndrome is focused on the muscles which are weak like; gluteals and abdominal muscle and the ones’ which are tight like; hip flexors and lumbar erector spinal. The main goal of the physical therapists is to achieve the muscular balance which is the key to overcome Lower Crossed Syndrome. Physical therapists adopt the following exercises to achieve the muscular balance: Specific mobility stretches are administered to stretch the tight lower back and thigh musclesrnCorrective strengthening exercises are followed for weak gluteals and abdominal musclesrnPilates are practised to strengthen the core stability and to improvise the posture as wellrnPlank exercises are followed to develop stability and to reduce pain of the inactive and weak gluteals and abdominal musclesrnMyofascial release and trigger point massage to gluteals muscles may be performed to eliminate muscular adhesionsrnCore stabilization exercises are advised to strengthen the weak abdominal musclesrnRe-education about the proper posture and body usage is provided.rnRehabilitative program including manipulation and stretching exercises is adopted to restore movement and muscle strengthrnRelaxation techniques are applied to relax tight pelvis, hip joint and lumbar spine movement and muscle strengthrnPhysical therapy adjustments are made to eliminate joint tension, enhance the range of motion and restore proper functioning.rnContact Accessible Physical Therapy for the effective and proficient treatment of any of your painful spinal conditions. Our certified and dedicated physical therapists employ specialized skills to help you to regain your health and mobility.