Muscles

Longissimus thoracis

Erector spinae extending the thoracic and lumbar spine.

Referred pain map

Longissimus thoracis — thoracolumbar trigger points at T10–T11 and L1 in the medial paraspinals with referred pain down over the buttock and the sacroiliac area, a classic 'low back with sciatica-like' pattern that stays above the knee.

Overview

Erector spinae extending the thoracic and lumbar spine. Trigger points here are common in everyday and athletic populations and frequently contribute to the referred pain patterns described below.

Trigger point locations

Medial to iliocostalis along the thoracic and lumbar paraspinals.

Referred pain pattern

Buttock and lateral lower back pain, mimicking 'sciatica' but staying above the knee.

Palpation & testing

Palpate the muscle belly along its accessible course. Reproduction of the patient's familiar pain on palpation supports involvement.

Common causes

Prolonged seated posture, repetitive bending.

Self-care & clinical treatment

Hip hinge retraining, mobility. Clinically: needling.

Symptoms commonly linked

Low back pain
Mid-back pain
Sciatica-like pain

References

• Travell & Simons — Myofascial Pain and Dysfunction