A 40 year old female ultra runner presents with Rt SI pains when she runs more than 8 Miles.
A squat test reveals hypertonic low back muscles inhibit her Glutes. Contracted Ili-lumbar and Sacro-Tubrous ligaments on affected side. Weak Popliteus and Peroneus Longus bilaterally. The Popliteus steers the knee on the last 10 degrees of extension, important for push off in the running cycle. And the Peroneus controls deceleration of ankle extension. Also, planting the foot creates a closed kinetic chain, so if the Glutes aren’t properly working the knee will be affected too.
Adjusted L5 and Ilium, ankles and feet. ART pelvic ligaments, Glut Max, Peroneus and Popliteus. Released lumbar erectors with myofascial Decompression (cupping). Rocktaped Lumbar erectors and Glutes.
Reviewed Bridge pose variations to engage Glutes.
By her second visit, she reported being able to run 10 miles with only vague discomfort.
All previously weak muscles were firing normally. Released a lot of overly tight abdominal, low back and groin muscles and ligaments with ART and adjusted her pelvis. Added side planks to her home regimen to strengthen her Obliques which are needed for rotational stabilization in trail running.
Follow up in 2 weeks. She’s already on her way to safely increasing her mileage!