GENERAL INFORMATION ABOUT INTERSPINALES
The interspinales are small, paired muscles located deep in the spine, part of the transversospinales group. They span between adjacent spinous processes, playing a crucial role in the extension and stabilisation of the vertebral column. Additionally, these muscles help maintain posture and provide fine-tuned control during spinal movements, assisting in the alignment and stability of the vertebrae.
ORIGIN OF INTERSPINALES
The interspinales muscles originate from the spinous process of one vertebra. This strategic origin allows them to act as key stabilisers of the spine, enhancing spinal mechanics by facilitating smooth, controlled movements and maintaining vertebral alignment.
INSERTION POINT
These muscles insert into the spinous process of the adjacent vertebra above. This insertion enables the interspinales to assist effectively in the extension and stabilisation of the vertebral column, ensuring seamless movement and stability during various spinal activities.
MAJOR ARTERIES
The interspinales muscles receive their blood supply primarily from the posterior branches of the segmental spinal arteries. These arteries ensure adequate blood flow, providing the necessary oxygen and nutrients for the proper function as well as the health of these deep spinal muscles.
NEURAL INNERVATION
Moreover, the posterior rami of spinal nerves innervate the interspinales, highlighting their complex neural control.
TRIGGER POINT OF INTERSPINALES
Given their deep location, specific trigger points in these muscles are typically hard to reach. They are better addressed by healthcare professionals specialising in manual therapy.
CONCENTRIC FUNCTION
Significantly, the interspinales are responsible for assisting in the extension of the vertebral column, playing a critical role in the spinal movement.
ECCENTRIC FUNCTION
Additionally, these muscles control the speed and direction during flexion of the vertebral column, ensuring smooth transitions between movements.
ISOMETRIC FUNCTION
The interspinales also work isometrically to stabilise the vertebral column when it is static or under load, providing essential support.
RELATED MUSCLES (SCIENTIFIC NAMES)
- Multifidus: Provides stability and control to the vertebrae during movement.
- Rotatores: Assist in rotating the vertebral column and stabilising the spine.
- Semispinalis: Extends and rotates the spine, contributing to its stability.
- Erector Spinae (Iliocostalis, Longissimus, Spinalis): These muscles help extend, laterally flex, and rotate the vertebral column.
ANTAGONIST MUSCLES
- Rectus Abdominis: Flexes the spine and stabilises the core.
- Obliques (External and Internal): Rotate and laterally flex the spine and stabilise the trunk.
- Psoas Major: Assists in trunk flexion and stabilisation, as well as a deep hip flexor.
- Quadratus Lumborum: Aids in lateral flexion and extension of the lumbar spine.
COMMON INJURIES
- Strains and sprains: Overuse or sudden, awkward movements can cause muscle or ligament damage.
- Degenerative disc disease: Age-related wear and tear affecting the interspinales, leading to chronic pain.
- Facet joint syndrome: Degeneration of the facet joints causing pain and limited spinal movement.
- Poor posture pain: Chronic poor posture can lead to muscle imbalance and pain.
EXERCISES FOR INTERSPINALES
- Gentle back extensions: Strengthen the back muscles by performing slow, controlled extensions.
- Plank variations: Engage the core and back muscles, improving stability and strength.
- Bird dog exercise: Enhance balance and stability by extending opposite arms and legs while on hands and knees.
- Superman exercise: Lie face down and lift arms and legs simultaneously to strengthen the lower back.
- Pelvic tilts: Improve spinal mobility and strengthen the lower back by tilting the pelvis back and forth.
STRETCHES FOR INTERSPINALES
- Cat-Camel stretch: Alternate between arching and rounding your back to improve flexibility and reduce tension.
- Child’s pose: Sit back on your heels with arms extended forward, stretching the back muscles.
- Lower back rotational stretch: Lie on your back with knees bent and rotate them to each side to stretch the lower back.
- Seated spinal stretch: Sit with one leg extended and the other bent, twisting the torso to stretch the spine.
- Knee-to-chest stretch: Pull one knee at a time towards the chest to stretch the lower back muscles.