Strengthen the Multifidus Muscle: A Path to McHenry Back Pain Relief and Recovery

August 06, 2024

If you're among the countless individuals dealing with low back pain or the complications that come with herniated discs, you are not alone. The journey to relief can feel intimidating, but understanding the importance of the multifidus muscle in your recovery can be a life-changing and inspiring experience. This often-ignored muscle is pivotal not only for stabilizing your spine but also for reinstating your quality of life. By actively doing targeted strengthening exercises, you are taking the first big step toward reclaiming comfort and mobility. Together at OrthoIllinois Chiropractic, we will explore how nurturing this vital muscle can lead to a healthier, pain-free future with our [[targeltocation]] chiropractic care.

BACK PAIN AND THE DISC HERNIATION

For patients experiencing low back pain or issues associated with herniated discs, recent research highlights the critical value of targeting the multifidus muscle through structured strengthening exercises. The multifidus muscle, a main stabilizer of the spine, plays an essential role in keeping proper posture and spinal alignment. A study by Tsartsapakis et al. (1) specifically compares a variety of core stability exercises and their effectiveness in boosting muscle thickness throughout different activation maneuvers. The findings reveal that tailored core exercises not only improve the strength of the multifidus muscle but also significantly increase its overall functionality, which is key for stabilizing the spine during movement and everyday actions.

ACTIVE REHAB HELPS MUSCLE RECOVER

Moreover, research done by James et al. (2) emphasizes the significance of active rehabilitation in reducing fibrosis – scarring of the connective tissue - in the multifidus muscle after intervertebral disc injury. Their work indicates that focused activation of the multifidus can alleviate some of the adverse effects associated with disc-related injuries, such as chronic pain and reduced mobility, leading to improved recovery outcomes. This suggests that a proactive approach to rehabilitation can enhance healing processes, promoting the regeneration of muscle tissue and improving overall spinal health.

EXERCISE FOR THE MULTIFIDUS

By integrating these directed exercises into your McHenry chiropractic treatment plan, you can foster resilience in your lower back, [ease|alleviate|lessen]55] pain, and improve your quality of life. The treatment plan at OrthoIllinois Chiropractic includes spinal manipulation - which is shown to lower spinal stiffness and increase multifidus thickness after the first spinal manipulation (3) - and exercise. These exercises can include variations such as bridging, bird-dogs, and specific stability drills that engage the multifidus while also strengthening the adjoining core muscles. Remember, while strengthening the multifidus muscle is a crucial strategy, it is essential to always consult with your chiropractor to develop a personalized exercise regimen that takes into consideration your [[personal|unique] needs and conditions. Your journey to recovery is a collaboration between you and your McHenry healthcare providers including OrthoIllinois Chiropractic, and we are here to help you every step of the way, ensuring you have the resources and guidance required for a successful recovery and a return to your life.

CONTACT OrthoIllinois Chiropractic

Listen to this PODCAST with Dr. James Cox on The Back Doctors Podcast with Dr. Michael Johnson as he describes the effective bringing together gentle treatment with The Cox® Technic System of Spinal Pain Management and strengthening the multifidus muscle.   

Make your next McHenry chiropractic appointment with OrthoIllinois Chiropractic today!

McHenry chiropractic exercise to strengthen multifidus