Psoas & hamstrings relationship

[Mommy to 4 boys :)]

I am a bit confused by the psoas/hamstrings relationship and the suggestions I've seen to work the hamstrings on folks with restricted psoas.

Even if hip flexion is less than normal ROM, wouldn't you want extension normalized before determining actions to take regarding the hamstrings?

 

[Someone]

Psoas & hamstrings relationship

Even if hip flexion is less than normal ROM, wouldn't you want extension normalized before determining actions to take regarding the hamstrings?

Yes, because hip flexion may be restricted by excessive forward pelvic tilt. IOW, the hamstrings have to over-lengthen in order to appear to reach normal ROM. If hip extension is normal, and proper pelvic tilt is restored, hamstrings can be assessed more accurately.

 

[starburst71795]

Excellent, thank you! That's what I was thinking.

I remember seeing hamstrings on the list of tight muscles for lower crossed syndrome, as well as someone posting here about working the hamstrings being important for achieving psoas release (???).

It has been pointed out to me via PM that anterior/posterior rotational differences between left and right ilia can have hamstring involvement on the posteriorly rotated side.

 

[Rob C]

Breathe is right on regarding the hamstrings being overly lengthened. Address the hip flexors but test the quads as well. Quad tightness is an often overlooked part of an anterior pelvic tilt symdrome. Lengthen the psoas AND the quads. Bring the pelvis into a more neutral alignment. Cranky hamstrings will then usually quiet down on their own.

 

[Blood Python Fanatic]

also check the erectors and even lats (as they attach to the posterior iliac crest) for tightness/tone in a client with an excessive anterior pelvic tilt, as they work as a force couple with the psoas to tilt the pelvis anteriorly.

Free up those muscles
stretch psoas and quads
Strengthen glutes (a lot of times hamstrings have pain and cramp up because of poor or inadequate glute firing).

patrick