Issue link: https://www.massageandbodyworkdigital.com/i/1208028
Ta k e 5 a n d t r y A B M P F i v e - M i n u t e M u s c l e s a t w w w. a b m p . c o m / f i v e - m i n u t e - m u s c l e s . 43 The strength of the vastus muscles is generated by their large cross-sectional area, increased leverage created by the patella, and single purpose of extending the knee. Tightness in the rectus femoris is common and may lead to excessive anterior pelvic tilt, poor patellar tracking, or both. Tension from the rectus femoris tends to pull the anterior ilium forward and downward toward the femur, resulting in increased anterior pelvic tilt and an associated increase in lumbar lordosis. At the knee, excessive tension in the rectus femoris presses the articular surface or underside of the patella into the femoral groove. Prolonged compression at the patellofemoral joint prompts inflammatory responses, pain with activity, and eventually wears away the articular cartilage, Assisted Rectus Femoris Stretch Positioning: client lies flat in a prone position with legs together. 1. Stand at the client's side and orient yourself between their hip and knee. 2. Gently flex the client's knee and support the leg as you grasp the underside of the knee. 3. Use your other hand to stabilize the hip by pressing down into the table. 4. Hold the hip down as you passively extend the hip, lifting the knee up off the table. 5. To emphasize stretch at the knee, move your grasp to the shin and passively flex the knee while you stabilize the hip with your other hand. Palpating Rectus Femoris Positioning: client lies in a supine position. 1. Stand at the client's side facing the thigh and locate the anterior superior iliac spine with your fingertips. 2. Slide your fingertips inferiorly between the tensor fascia latae and sartorius muscles. 3. Allow your fingers to remain superficial on the thigh to find the thick, feather-like fibers of the rectus femoris. 4. Have the client gently resist flexion of the hip and extension of the knee to ensure proper location. causing chronic knee problems like osteoarthritis. Maintaining adequate flexibility in the rectus femoris can help prevent these types of postural and mechanical dysfunctions and associated chronic conditions. Christy Cael is a licensed massage therapist and certified strength and conditioning specialist. Her private practice focuses on injury treatment, biomechanical analysis, craniosacral therapy, and massage for clients with neurological issues. She is the author of Functional Anatomy: Musculoskeletal Anatomy, Kinesiology, and Palpation for Manual Therapists (Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, 2009). Contact her at christy_cael@hotmail.com.