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Multifidus Dysfunction

What is multifidus dysfunction?

Multifidus dysfunction refers to impaired function or atrophy of the multifidus muscles, which are critical deep spinal stabilisers supporting posture and spinal movement. Dysfunction can lead to instability, chronic back pain, and impaired mobility.

Symptoms

Common symptoms include:

  • Persistent lower back pain
  • Feeling of spine instability
  • Difficulty maintaining posture or balance
  • Reduced range of motion and stiffness

Causes

Multifidus dysfunction is often caused by:

  • Acute or chronic back injury
  • Degenerative spinal conditions
  • Muscle disuse due to pain or prolonged immobilisation
  • Neurological impairment affecting muscle control

Diagnosis

Diagnosis involves:

  • Clinical evaluation of spinal stability and muscle function
  • Imaging like MRI may demonstrate muscle atrophy
  • Electromyography in selected cases to assess muscle activity

Treatment and Surgical Management

Treatment typically includes:

  • Targeted physiotherapy focusing on core strengthening, especially multifidus activation
  • Pain management and activity modification
  • In persistent cases, further spine specialist assessment may be advised to address underlying pathology

Surgical intervention for multifidus dysfunction itself is rare and usually directed at the root spinal cause rather than the muscle dysfunction alone.