College of Massage Therapists of British Columbia (CMTBC) Practice Exam

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What is a common symptom of tight ilipsoas muscles?

  1. Lower back pain

  2. Shoulder pain

  3. Knee pain

  4. Neck stiffness

The correct answer is: Lower back pain

Tight iliopsoas muscles are known to contribute to lower back pain, primarily due to their anatomical location and function. The iliopsoas, which consists of the iliacus and psoas major muscles, plays a crucial role in hip flexion and stabilization of the pelvis. When these muscles become tight, they can create an imbalance in the pelvic alignment and may increase the lumbar lordosis (the natural curvature of the lower back). This altered posture can lead to excessive strain on the lumbar spine and associated structures, resulting in discomfort or pain in the lower back region. Additionally, tightness in these muscles can limit hip mobility, further exacerbating any discomfort in the lower back, as the body compensates for reduced range of motion. This relationship between the iliopsoas and lower back pain is commonly recognized in both clinical settings and sports medicine. Shoulder pain, knee pain, and neck stiffness are less directly connected to the function of the iliopsoas muscles. While these areas can experience discomfort due to various other factors or compensatory mechanisms, tightness specifically in the iliopsoas does not target those areas in the same way it affects the lower back.