384 | QL Causing Low Back Pain or Tightness?

In this episode of the Optimal Body Podcast, Doc Jen and Doctor Dom explore the often-misunderstood quadratus lumborum (QL) muscle, frequently blamed for low back pain. They explain the QL's role in the body, emphasizing its interactions with other muscles and fascia. The hosts discuss the importance of proper breathing techniques, particularly diaphragmatic breathing, to alleviate QL tension. They also share self-care strategies, including using tools like a cordless ball and foam roller, and highlight the significance of core stability and hip control. Their holistic approach aims to empower women to manage and prevent low back pain effectively. Needed Discount: Although the journey of pregnancy is so personal and individual, Jen's number one question goes back to what she did to help her conceive and maintain the pregnancy. While there were a myriad of factors that contributed, she reliably counted on Needed supplements that supported her journey! Men need support as well via sperm support and men's multivitamins. While women are supported by egg quality supplementation, CoQ10, prenatal Omega 3, iron, and choline in tablet or powder form. Used by over 4000 health professionals, Needed is available to support pregnancy, fertility, and postpartum, as well as women's and men's health in general. Check out needed if you know there's a gap in your nutrition via code ⁠⁠OPTIMAL⁠⁠ for 20% off. LMNT Discount Code: Fuel every system within the body and the brain with LMNT! Keep yourself hydrated on a cellular level by replenishing the sodium, potassium, and magnesium that our body needs for basic cellular processes like nerve signaling, smooth muscle contractions, unnecessary fatigue, aches and pain, brain fog, and recovery! Get a free gift with every purchase and try some new flavors as you stay hydrated! ⁠⁠⁠⁠Get Your Free Gift! Free Week of the Jen Health Membership: Looking for a movement community that gives you the plan specific to your body? Need accountability and a plan that is specific to your restrictions?! Come grab a free week of our Jen Health Membership! You'll have access to 12 plans that were all curated by Doc Jen, Dr of Physical Therapy. We make sure you get set up with the plan that will be best for your goals and the rest is laid out for you to follow! Come check it out today! You can even get a discount on your first month using code OPTIMAL at checkout! We think you’ll love: Get A Free Week on Jen Health! Free Low Back Pain Guide Jen’s Instagram Dom’s Instagram YouTube Channel Check out the full show notes and resources here: https://jen.health/podcast/384 What you'll learn in this episode: 1:52 Understanding the Quadratus Lumborum 5:04 Importance of Breathing Techniques 9:16 Fascial Connections of the QL 12:12 Approaches to QL Pain Management 16:43 Breath and Movement Integration 17:41 Core Muscle Coordination 18:45 Hip Control and Glute Activation 19:40 Single Leg Variations for Stability 20:23 Comprehensive Stretching Benefits