The psoas minor muscle is a long, thin muscle located in the posterior abdominal wall and anterior to the psoas major. It is present in only 60% of the population.
This muscle originates from the vertebral bodies of T12 and L1 and attaches to the pectineal line, which is a ridge on the superior ramus of the pubic bone.
The primary action of the psoas minor is the flexion of the vertebral column.
The psoas minor is innervated by the anterior rami of the L1 spinal nerve.
The blood supply to the psoas minor comes from the lumbar arteries.
The psoas minor is an important muscle, as it helps flex the vertebral column and keep the internal organs held close to the abdominal wall. This helps protect the organs from outside influences, such as trauma or sudden movements. The psoas muscles also help balance the body, as they provide stability when standing and also aid in movements of the pelvis and lower back.
The psoas minor can become a target for injury or irritation, which can lead to a variety of symptoms, including back pain, hip pain and nerve impingements. If the muscle is injured or irritated, it can cause the surrounding muscles to become tight or weak, thus leading to further issues. If the issue is left untreated or misdiagnosed, further complications can arise, such as chronic pain or an inability to perform certain activities.
Treatments for issues arising from the psoas minor typically involve strengthening and stretching the muscles in the area, as well as therapeutic massage. Additionally, physiotherapeutic treatments are often used to reduce inflammation and provide relief from the symptoms associated with the injury. Finally, if the injury is more serious, surgery may be recommended.
The psoas minor is an important muscle for providing balance and protecting the internal organs. If injured or irritated, this muscle can cause a variety of symptoms, which can be treated through various methods, such as stretching, strengthening and therapeutic massage. In more serious cases, surgery may be necessary. Therefore, it is important to seek professional medical attention if any symptoms become present.
