MULTIFIDUS

GENERAL INFORMATION

The multifidus is a skinny strip of muscle located deep in the spine and is one of the most potent stabilisers. It is made up of a series of muscles attached to the spinal column and divided into sections along the vertebral column. Consequently, this muscle is crucial for maintaining spinal stability and alignment.

 

ORIGIN OF MULTIFIDUS

The multifidus originates from the sacrum, the erector spinae aponeurosis, and the transverse processes of the lumbar through cervical vertebrae. Therefore, it has multiple points of origin that contribute to its extensive stabilising function.

 

INSERTION POINT

This muscle inserts onto the spinous processes of vertebrae above, spanning 2-4 segments. Thus, it connects various segments of the spine, ensuring coordinated movement and stability.

 

MAJOR ARTERIES

The multifidus is primarily supplied by the posterior branches of the segmental spinal arteries. Consequently, these arteries provide the necessary blood flow to support the muscle’s function.

 

NEURAL INNERVATION

The posterior rami of spinal nerves innervate this muscle. Therefore, proper nerve function is essential for the activation and control of the multifidus.

 

TRIGGER POINT

Trigger points for the multifidus are generally located within the muscle belly along the spine. To relieve discomfort, these can be stimulated through manual pressure or massage. As a result, targeted therapy can alleviate pain and improve muscle function.

 

CONCENTRIC FUNCTION

The multifidus is primarily responsible for stabilising the joints at each level of the spine, allowing for more effective and efficient movement throughout the body. Additionally, it contributes to spinal extension and contralateral (opposite side) rotation. Thus, it plays a significant role in maintaining spinal health.

 

ECCENTRIC FUNCTION

This muscle controls the speed and direction during spinal flexion and ipsilateral (same side) rotation. Consequently, it is essential for controlled and precise movements.

 

ISOMETRIC FUNCTION

When the spine is static or carrying a load, this muscle works isometrically to help stabilise the vertebral column. Therefore, it provides crucial support during various activities and maintains proper posture.

 

RELATED MUSCLES (SCIENTIFIC NAMES)

• Erector Spinae (Iliocostalis, Longissimus, Spinalis): Major back muscles that work with the multifidus to support the spine.

• Semispinalis: Extends and rotates the spine, aiding in complex spinal movements.

• Rotatores: Small muscles that help with spinal rotation and proprioception.

• Interspinales: Assist in spine extension and stability between individual vertebrae.

• Intertransversarii: Located between transverse processes, aiding lateral spinal movement.

 

ANTAGONIST MUSCLES

• Rectus Abdominis: Contracts to flex the spine, opposing the multifidus’s extension role.

• Obliques (External and Internal): These muscles help rotate and flex the torso, countering spinal extension.

• Psoas Major: Flexes the hip and lumbar spine, opposing the lumbar extension.

• Quadratus Lumborum: Stabilizes the lower back but can oppose the multifidus during certain movements.

 

COMMON INJURIES

• Lower back pain: Often arises from poor posture, overuse, or trauma affecting the multifidus.

• Lumbar disc herniation: Pressure on spinal nerves often involves multifidus dysfunction.

• Degenerative disc disease: Chronic condition affecting spinal health, often linked to multifidus weakening.

• Spondylolisthesis: Slippage of one vertebra over another, frequently associated with multifidus muscle issues.

 

EXERCISES

• Planks and Variations: Strengthen the core and multifidus, enhancing spinal stability.

• Bird Dog Exercise: Improves balance and lumbar spine stability by extending alternate arms and legs.

• Bridge Exercise: Targets the lower back and buttocks, supporting the multifidus.

• Superman: Engages the back extensors, including the multifidus, to increase spinal alignment and strength.

• Segmental Bridge: Focuses on controlled, segmental spinal movement to activate the multifidus.

 

STRETCHES

• Child’s Pose: Relaxes and stretches the back muscles, including the multifidus, for increased flexibility.

• Cat-Camel Stretch: Enhances spinal flexibility through gentle flexion and extension movements.

• Lower Back Rotational Stretch: Mobilizes the lower spine, alleviating stiffness around the multifidus.

• Seated Lower Back Rotational Stretch: Allows for focused stretching of the lumbar multifidus and adjacent muscles.

• Kneeling Lateral Stretch: Stretches the multifidus and adjoining muscles by extending the torso sideways.

Regular engagement in these exercises and stretches can significantly enhance the functionality and health of this muscle, promoting better spinal alignment and reducing the risk of back-related injuries.