Quadratus Lumborum
The quadratus lumborum or QL is a common cause of back pain which is to one side and comes on after lifting or twisting.
Origin
- Posterior iliac crest.
- Iliolumbar ligament.
Insertion
- Twelfth rib.
- Transerve processes of L1-L4.
Actions
- Laterally flexes (side-bends) trunk.
Innervation
- Ventral rami of the subcostal nerve.
- Lumbar nerves.
Daily uses
- Bending sideways to pick something up.
Example strengthening exercises
- Side-bends.
Example stretches
- Side stretch.
Related injuries
- Hyperlordosis.
Related muscles
- Internal obliques.
- External obliques.
