Paraspinal
muscles help us
bend forward,
backward and
sidewaysThe muscles of the spine
There are a vast number of muscles that act on the backbone. These help us to bend
forward (flexion), backward (extension), sideways and twist (rotate) in either direction.
The muscles on either side of the spine (known as Paraspinal muscles) are most affected
and are responsible for the majority of back pain symptoms that we experience from
time to time. [“Para” is a medical term meaning – by the side of. “Spinalis” refers to the
spinal column. Thus, these muscles lie on either side of the spinal column]. Any
untoward movement or inappropriate lifting of a heavy load can sprain this group of
muscles leading to an acute spasm that heralds back pain.
Paraspinal Muscles
The paraspinal muscles consist of many small muscles that are attached to the
vertebrae. Together with other muscles, they help support the spine
and keep it in proper alignment. They also limit the range of
motion of the spine, which helps to prevent injuries to the discs
and spinal cord caused by overextension.
The paraspinal muscles do not work alone; they are part of an
interconnected network of muscles that wrap around the chest,
abdomen, and pelvis. All of these muscles work together to protect the spine and allow
movement within a safe range. If the abdominal muscles are weak, the muscles of the
back have to work harder to compensate for the weakness, which can lead to a strain in
one or more of the paraspinal muscles. Excess body weight, especially weight carried on
the front of the body (a big belly), can also contribute to an overload of the back
muscles. Low back pain is thus one of the most common complaints of pregnancy, as
well as in people who are overweight or obese.