The lumbar multifidus: Does the evidence support clinical beliefs?

David A. MacDonald, G. Lorimer Moseley and Paul W. Hodges

The contribution of the trunk muscles to spinal stability is well established and there is convincing evidence for the role of multifidus in spinal stability. This paper reviews the biomechanical, electromyographic, histochemical and morphological data that underpin five key clinical beliefs relating to the deep fibres of mutifidus. Although there is support for the importance of the lumbar multifidus and the specific contribution of this muscle to intervertebral control, several of the clinical beliefs have little or no support and require further evaluation. These findings have implications for clinical practice.

Manual Therapy, Volume 11, Issue 4, November 2006, Pages 254-263

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