The influence of hip extensor and lumbar spine extensor strength on lumbar spine loading during a squat lift

Review written by Dr Jarod Hall info

Key Points

  1. In this study, increased hip and lumbar extensor strength was associated with higher lumbar extensor moments during a squat lift, suggesting stronger individuals utilize these muscles more effectively.
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BACKGROUND & OBJECTIVE

The squat lift movement pattern requires significant engagement from the hip extensors (gluteus maximus and hamstrings) and lumbar extensors (paraspinal muscles), which work synergistically to stabilize and generate force. Weakness in these muscle groups has long been theorized to increase lumbar spine loading, potentially contributing to heightened injury risk and inefficient movement patterns (1-3).

Studies suggest that individuals with weaker hip extensors may experience increased lumbar spine moments during lifting, placing a greater demand on the spinal musculature (4-5). However, the exact relationship between hip and lumbar extensor strength and lumbar spine demand has not been fully quantified. Understanding these relationships is critical for refining rehabilitation protocols, optimizing strength training programs, and mitigating injury risks associated with lifting mechanics.

This study aimed to examine the influence of hip extensor and lumbar spine extensor strength on lumbar spine loading during a squat lift.

Lifting is a fundamental movement in both daily activities and occupational settings, often requiring individuals to handle substantial loads that place mechanical stress on the lumbar spine.
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Strengthening the hip and lumbar extensors can enhance force generation during lifting tasks while reducing reliance on compensatory movement patterns that may contribute to injury.

METHODS

Participants: 27 healthy females, aged 18-40 years, participated in the study. Inclusion criteria required participants to be free from lower back or lower extremity pain for at least 12 months. Exclusion criteria included pregnancy, history of spinal or lower extremity

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