Which muscles are typically overactive in association with lower crossed syndrome?

Lower crossed syndrome is characterized by a specific pattern of muscular imbalances that typically involve certain groups of muscles becoming overactive and others becoming underactive. In this condition, the hip flexors (such as the iliopsoas) and lumbar extensors (such as the erector spinae) are often overactive.

The hip flexors become tight due to prolonged sitting or poor posture, which can pull the pelvis into an anterior pelvic tilt and increase the lumbar curve. Meanwhile, the lumbar extensors can also become overactive as they engage excessively to compensate for the anterior tilt of the pelvis, leading to a further increase in spinal compression and potential discomfort.

Understanding these patterns is crucial for identifying appropriate correction strategies in fitness program design and rehabilitation. Thus, recognizing the hip flexors and lumbar extensors as overactive muscles in lower crossed syndrome is essential for developing targeted interventions aimed at restoring balance and improving overall movement quality.