GENERAL INFORMATION
The rotatores are small muscles and tendons in the plunging back, part of the transversospinal group. They span the thoracic to lumbar regions, stabilising the spine and aiding in rotation, which is crucial for spinal health and mobility.
ORIGIN
The rotatores originate from the transverse processes of the vertebrae. Therefore, their strategic origin points allow them to assist effectively in spinal stabilisation and movement.
INSERTION POINT
This group of muscles inserts into the junction of the lamina and the base of the spinous process of the vertebrae directly above their origin. They span one to two vertebral segments. Thus, those that span one segment are known as rotatores brevis, while those that span two are known as rotatores longus. Consequently, their insertion points are essential for their function in spinal movement.
MAJOR ARTERIES
The posterior branches of the segmental spinal arteries supply the rotatores. As a result, these arteries provide the necessary blood flow to support the muscles’ function.
NEURAL INNERVATION
The posterior rami of the spinal nerves innervate the rotatores muscles. Therefore, proper nerve function is vital for the activation and control of these deep spinal muscles.
TRIGGER POINT
Given the deep location of the rotatores, trigger points are typically hard to reach. Consequently, they are better addressed by a healthcare professional who specialises in manual therapy. Therefore, professional intervention can effectively alleviate the discomfort associated with these trigger points.
CONCENTRIC FUNCTION
The rotatores assist in contralateral (opposite side) rotation and extension of the vertebral column. Thus, they are integral to various spinal movements, ensuring effective and controlled rotation and extension.
ECCENTRIC FUNCTION
These muscles control the speed and direction during spinal flexion and ipsilateral (same side) rotation. Consequently, they play a critical role in maintaining stability and control during these movements.
ISOMETRIC FUNCTION
When the vertebral column is static or carrying a load, the rotatores work isometrically to stabilise the spine. Therefore, they provide essential support during various activities and maintain proper posture.
RELATED MUSCLES (SCIENTIFIC NAMES)
- Semispinalis: Extends, rotates, and laterally flexes the vertebral column.
- Multifidus: Provides stiffness and stability to the spinal column.
- Longissimus: Supports both spinal extension and lateral flexion.
- Spinalis: Predominantly involved in spinal extension.
- Iliocostalis: Aids in extending and laterally bending the spine.
ANTAGONIST MUSCLES
- Rectus Abdominis: Flexes the lumbar spine, opposing the back extensors.
- Obliques (External and Internal): Support trunk rotation and lateral flexion, counteracting spinal extensors.
- Psoas Major: Flexes the hip, influencing lumbar spine movements.
- Quadratus Lumborum: Stabilizes and laterally flexes the lumbar spine, often opposing the actions of the rotatores.
COMMON INJURIES
- Muscular strain: Common from overuse or sudden movements that overextend or twist the spine.
- Poor posture pain: Often results from chronic misalignment or lack of movement.
- Facet joint syndrome: Degenerative ailments that impair spinal joints and stability.
- Degenerative disc disease: Breakdown of spinal discs, impacting rotatores function and health.
EXERCISES
- Extension and Rotation Exercises: Strengthen the rotatores by incorporating gentle resistance to promote flexibility and strength.
- Plank Variations: Enhance core stability, which supports the rotatores and overall spinal alignment.
- Bird Dog Exercise: Boosts spinal stability through controlled, alternate limb extensions.
- Pelvic Tilts: Engage the core and lower back, supporting the lower spine and rotatores.
- Yoga Twists: Introduce gentle rotational movements to improve spinal mobility and muscle elasticity.
STRETCHES
- Gentle Rotational Stretches: Target the thoracic and lumbar regions to enhance mobility and relieve stiffness.
- Child’s Pose: Offers a deep, relaxing stretch across the back, benefiting the rotatores.
- Cat-Camel Stretch: Increases spinal flexibility and fluidity through soothing, rhythmic movements.
- Seated Lower Back Rotational Stretch: Specifically stretches the lower back, aiding in rotatore flexibility.
- Supine Spinal Twist: Lying down stretch that applies a gentle twist to the spine, elongating and relaxing the spinal muscles.
Regularly performing these targeted exercises and stretches can significantly improve the strength, flexibility, and functionality of the rotatores muscles, promoting better spinal health and preventing common injuries.