Limited Hip Mobility Can Cause Your Back Pain

January 6th, 2021
Back Pain

Are you experiencing nagging back aches and wonder where the source of pain is coming from? Your hip mobility plays a large role in supporting your back and limited hip motion can cause back pain. 

According to Georgetown University’s Health Policy Institute, nearly 65 million Americans reported a recent episode of back pain. 16 million adults (8 percent of all adults) experience persistent or chronic back pain, and as a result are limited in certain everyday activities. 

Impact of Hip Mobility on Back Pain

A recent study performed by Sydney Sports & Exercise Physiology highlights the influence and connection between hip mobility and low back pain. 

  • Two groups were evaluated: 1 group with low back pain and 1 group without.

What Did The Study Find when Comparing Low Back Pain vs Non-Low Back Pain groups?

  • Hip extension in those with low back pain = – 4.16 degrees
  • Hip extension in those without low back pain = 6.78 degrees

Measuring Hip Extension Range of Motion:

Figure 1a. Shows the average hip extension range of motion of the group WITH low back pain (-4.16 degrees)

Figure 1b. Shows the average hip extension range of motion of the group WITHOUT low back pain (6.78 degrees)

Is Your Hip Mobility Restrictions the Source of Your Back Pain?

Loss of hip range of motion relates to back pain. Hip mobility restrictions can alter your pelvic alignment and alter the posture of your spine. 

If you are suffering from back pain or have limited hip mobility, Physical Therapy can help determine where the source of your aching is coming from. Call Respire PT today at 703-671-1871 to schedule a personalized evaluation and get back to moving freely without pain!

Sources:

Written by: Dr. Kevin Teng, DPT

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