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MUSCLE OF THE MONTH

October 2026

 

 

         Pectineus

 

 

The PECTINEUS muscles is a flat,                                                                                                                                                                                                                            quadrangular muscle located in                                                                                                                                                                                                                                        the upper, inner front of the thigh                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      (groin area) that helps flex and                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          adduct the hip.

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Anatomy and Location

 

Location: Situated at the anterior (front) and medial (inner) upper thigh; it forms part of the floor of the femoral triangle.

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  • Origin (Attachment at pelvis): The pectineal line of the pubic bone (superior pubic ramus).

    Insertion (Attachment at leg): The pectineal line on the posterior surface of the femur (just below the lesser trochanter).

    Nerve Supply: Primarily the femoral nerve, and sometimes an additional branch from the obturator nerve.

 

Function

  • Hip Flexion: Lifts the thigh upward toward the chest.

  • Hip Adduction: Pulls the leg inward toward the body's midline.

  • Rotation: Assists with external/medial rotation of the hip joint.

 

Common Injuries

  • Strains: Often called a hip flexor or groin strain, caused by overstretching from rapid sprinting, kicking, or sudden changes in direction. [

  • Symptoms: Pain in the groin or upper thigh, bruising, swelling, tenderness, and stiffness.

 

Clinical Significance

 

  • Forms part of the floor of the femoral triangle alongside the iliopsoas muscle.

  • Lies directly behind the major vascular and nerve structures of the upper thigh, including the femoral artery, femoral vein, and femoral nerve.

  • A common muscle to be injured in a ‘groin’ strain injury

  • Acts as a stabilizer during weight bearing and gait

 

Neurokinetic Therapy Significance

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NeuroKinetic Therapy (NKT), the pectineus muscle holds massive clinical significance as a primary "cheat" muscle. Because of its dual anatomical role—acting as both a hip flexor and a hip adductor—the brain frequently recruits a hyperactive or facilitated pectineus to compensate for weaknesses in larger, primary movers.

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Common Compensation Patterns (Facilitation vs. Inhibition)

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NKT focuses on the relationship between overactive (facilitated) and underactive (inhibited) muscles coordinated by the brain's Motor Control Center. The pectineus most frequently displays two distinct patterns:

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1. The Pectineus-Psoas Relationship (The "Pectineal Pinch")

  • The Pattern: Pectineus is facilitated (overactive) while the Psoas is inhibited (underactive).

  • Clinical Significance: Both muscles flex the hip. When the powerful psoas fails to fire correctly, the brain forces the much smaller pectineus to drive hip flexion. Because of its angle, a hypertonic pectineus literally "jams" the femoral head into the acetabulum. This creates Pectineo-Femoral Pinch Syndrome, causing deep groin pain that mimics an anterior labral tear or hip impingement.

2. The Pectineus-Gluteus Medius / Abductor Relationship

  • The Pattern: Pectineus is facilitated while the Gluteus Medius or Gluteus Maximus is inhibited

  • Clinical Significance: The pectineus adductor function may overwork to stabilize the pelvis if the lateral gluteal stabilizers are failing. Alternatively, a tightly bound pectineus can neurologically lock out and inhibit the hip abductors, altering gait and leading to lateral hip pain or IT band-like symptoms.

pectineus_edited.png

September 2026

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Latissimus Dorsi

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Latissimus Dorsi - the largest, widest flat muscle in the human back

  • Origin (Starting points): Lower thoracic vertebrae (T7–T12), lumbar and sacral vertebrae, thoracolumbar fascia, iliac crest of the hip, and lower ribs (9–12).

  • Insertion (Ending point): The floor of the intertubercular groove (bicipital groove) on the upper arm bone (humerus)

Function

  • Arm Movement: Pulls the arm down, back, and inward toward the body (extension, adduction, and internal rotation).

  • Actions: Used during climbing, pull-ups, push-downs, and heavy rowing.

  • Respiration: Acts as an accessory muscle for deep breathing or coughing.

 

Clinical Significance

  • Range of motion: Tightness or stiffness in the latissimus dorsi can restrict shoulder abduction (raising the arm to the side), flexion (raising the arm forward/overhead), and lateral rotation

  • Tears: Though rare, acute tears or strains can occur in throwing athletes (like baseball pitchers), causing weakness in arm adduction and internal rotation.

  • Spinal attachments: The muscle attaches via the thoracolumbar fascia to the spine and pelvis.

  • Exacerbating pain: Decreased muscle length or increased stiffness alters movement patterns, which can contribute to or worsen chronic low back and shoulder pain.

 

Neurokinetic Therapy Significance:

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  • The Latissimus Dorsi and Gluteus Maximus are part of the Posterior Oblique System                               and connected through Thoracolumbar fascia

  • During walking or running:

    • Gluteus Maximus contracts on foot strike while the opposite Lats contract

    • Lats extend the arm as a means of counter rotation

    • This countered contraction creates tension thoracolumbar fascia which stabilizes the Sacroiliac (SI) Joint

  • Some authors describe this system may act like a spring. The stored energy in the Thoracolumbar Fascia can be released in the next contraction

August 2026

 

Fibularis Muscle Group

 

 

  • Fibularis Longus: The longest and                                                                                                                                                                                                                  most superficial muscle in the lateral                                                                                                                                                                                                                     compartment; starts at the upper                                                                                                                                                                                                                          fibula, runs down the outer leg, and crosses the sole to attach to the inner foot

  • Fibularis Brevis: A shorter muscle lying underneath the longus in the lateral compartment; starts on the lower fibula and attaches to the outer base of the fifth metatarsal

  • Fibularis Tertius: The smallest muscle, located in the front (anterior) compartment of the leg; runs down to attach to the fifth metatarsal (absent in some people)

 

Key Functions

  • Eversion: Turning the sole of the foot outward away from the body midline.

  • Plantorflexion/Dorsiflexion: Longus and brevis help point the foot downward, while tertius assists in lifting the top of the foot upward.

  • Stability: Protects the ankle against rolling inward (inversion sprains) and supports the foot arches.

 

Clinical Significance

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Fibularis longus, fibularis brevis, and the smaller fibularis tertius are vital dynamic stabilizers of the lateral ankle, crucial for preventing lateral ankle sprains, supporting the foot's transverse arch

 

Neurokinetic Therapy Significance

 

The Fibularis Muscle group is functionally related to:

-the muscles inverting and everting the ankle

-the muscles that move along the frontal plane (ie. Quadratus Lumborum, Gluteus Medius/Minimus)

 

*meaning- the Fibularis muscle can be inhibited or overworking in related to these muscles

May 2026

​   Splenius Capitis     /   Splenius Cervicis

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  1. Splenius Capitis: A thick, broad muscle that connects the lower neck/upper back (spinous processes of C7–T3) to the mastoid process and superior nuchal line of the occipital bone.

  2. Splenius Cervicis: Located deeper and inferior to the capitis, it runs from the thoracic spinous processes (T3–T6) to the transverse processes of the upper cervical vertebrae (C1–C3)

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Key Functions

  • Bilateral Action: Extension of the head and cervical spine (looking up).

  • Unilateral Action: Rotation of the head to the same side (ipsilateral rotation) and lateral flexion of the neck.

  • Stabilization: These muscles act as stabilizers for the neck and head in an erect position.

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Clinical Significance

  • Trigger Points & Headaches: Dysfunction in these muscles commonly causes "stiff neck" and tension headaches, often referring pain to the occiput (back of the head) and behind the eyes.

  • Causes of Strain: Poor posture (e.g., forward head posture), whiplash injuries, or prolonged turning of the head (e.g., while sleeping or working) can cause pain.

  • Management: Treatment often includes targeted stretching, myofascial release, and exercises that strengthen the deep cervical muscles

March 2026

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Soleus

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​A powerful, flat muscle located in

the posterior compartment of your

lower leg

 

Origin: Attaches to the Soleal line of the tibia and the posterior surface of the head and upper third of the fibula.

 

Insertion: Joins the gastrocnemius to form the Achilles tendon, which inserts into the calcaneus (heel bone).

 

Fiber Type: Composed mostly of slow-twitch (Type I) fibers (60–100%), making it highly resistant to fatigue and essential for endurance

 

Primary Functions

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-Plantar Flexion: Its main role is pointing the toes downward. It is the primary driver of this movement when the knee is bent, as the gastrocnemius is shortened and less effective in that position.

-Postural Stability: Known as an antigravity muscle, it constantly pulls to keep the body upright and prevent it from falling forward while standing.

-The "Second Heart": It acts as a skeletal muscle pump, assisting in returning venous blood from the lower extremities back to the heart.-Metabolic Regulation: Recent research highlights the Soleus Pushup as a specialized exercise that can significantly lower blood sugar and improve systemic fat metabolism by pulling glucose directly from the bloodstream.

January 2026 

 

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Adductor Longus

 

 

 

 

 

Anatomy & Location

  • Group: One of the five hip adductor muscles

  • Position: Most anterior (front) of the adductor group, forming the medial border of the femoral triangle.

  • Origin: Pubis (bone of the pelvis).

  • Insertion: Medial lip of the linea aspera on the femur (thigh bone).

Functions

  • Adduction: Pulls the thigh inward toward the midline of the body.

  • Flexion & Rotation: Helps flex and externally rotate the thigh at the hip.

  • Stabilization: Stabilizes the pelvis and aids balance during standing and walking.

Injuries

  • Common Injury: A frequent source of groin pain, especially in athletes, often called a "pulled groin" or adductor strain.

 

Neurokinetic Therapy Significance

  • part of the lateral system of muscles and works with the Gluteus Medius on the same side and the Quadratus Lumborum on the opposite side while walking

  • part of the outer unit stabilizers of the core 

DECEMBER 2025 MUSCLE

 

 

SUB OCCIPITALS

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The Four Muscles

 

Key Functions & Significance

  • Head Stabilization: They help hold your head steady and maintain proper alignment.

  • Sensory Input: Rich in muscle spindles, they send vital information about head position to the brain (proprioception).

  • Head-Eye Coordination: Control precise head movements for visual focus.

  • Innervation: All are controlled by the suboccipital nerve (from C1 spinal nerve).

 

Clinical Relevance (Pain & Dysfunction)

  • Tension Headaches: Tightness here often causes pain at the base of the skull, radiating upwards as tension headaches.

  • Postural Issues: "Tech neck" (forward head posture) strains these muscles, leading to dysfunction and chronic pain.

  • Symptoms: Can cause dizziness, imbalance, and altered gait if chronically tight.

 

 

Neurokinetic Therapy Significance (Client case)

  • Client had really tight Sub Occipital muscles, which were over working for the under working Quadratus Lumborum muscles in the low back

  • I Massaged the Sub Occipitals and then activated the Quadratus Lumborum (QL)……. then the QL for firing properly again

  • Sent client home with proper release and activation exercises

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October 2025

 

 

                     

                   Gluteus Medius

 

 

 

 

 

Location and Appearance

  • Location: Situated on the upper and lateral (outer) part of the buttock, beneath the gluteus maximus muscle

  • Shape: Broad and fan-shaped, narrowing to a strong, flattened tendon.                                                                               

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  • Functions

  • Primary Hip Abductor: Its main function is to move the thigh away from the midline of the body. 

  • Pelvic Stabilizer: Crucial for stabilizing the pelvis and keeping the trunk upright during activities like walking, running, and standing on one leg. It counteracts the tendency of the unsupported side of the pelvis to sag downwards. 

  • Rotational Movements: The anterior (front) part of the muscle assists with internal (medial) rotation of the thigh, while the posterior (back) fibers contribute to external (lateral) rotation. 

    Balance and Stability: 

  • Weakness or dysfunction of the gluteus medius can lead to instability and balance issues, particularly during single-leg stances. 

  • Low Back Pain:  Dysfunction of the gluteus medius has been linked to an increased spinal load and reduced spinal stability, potentially contributing to low back pain. 

  • Hip Pain: Overuse or strain of the gluteus medius tendon can cause inflammation and pain on the outside of the hip. 

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  • Neurokinetic Therapy (NKT) Significance

  • Overactive or Inhibition of the Gluteus Medius can change position of the femur bone in the knee and lead to knee dysfunction and pain and can lead to flat feet or high arches

  • see clinical importance

  • With NKT assessment check the Gluteus Medius to other Glute muscles, hip adductor muscles, Quadratus Lumborum

  • Muscle of the Month​

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​​​September 2025

 

 

                                 Upper Trapezius

 

 

 

Origin:

base of skull, occipital protuberance, and posterior ligaments of neck

 

Insertion:

posterior aspect of the lateral third of the clavicle

 

Action:

elevation of the scapula; extension and rotation of the head at the neck; Bilateral contraction: extends neck

 

Function:

-assist in mainly postural attributes, allowing and supporting the spinal column to remain erect when the person is standing

-coordinated movements, primarily involving the scapula

 

Clinical Significance:

-The upper trapezius has a clear pain referral pattern to the head

-Trigger Points- refer pain to base of neck and also into the head

-Postural Issues- rounded shoulders, elevated shoulders

 

 

March 2025

 

​               Tibialis Anterior​​

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  • Originates on the lateral condyle of the tibia 

  • Runs down the front of the shin 

  • Ends in a tendon that attaches to the medial cuneiform and first metatarsal bones of the foot 

 

Function

Dorsiflexes and inverts the foot, Helps maintain an upright posture, and Absorbs energy when walking. 

 

Pain and problems

  • Pain along the tibialis anterior muscle is often called shin splints 

  • Shin splints can be caused by small tears in the periosteum 

  • Tendonitis can occur due to repetitive motions, such as running or jumping 

 

FEBRUARY 2025

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                       Gluteus Maximus

 

 

 

Origin

  • Outer slope of the dorsal segment of the iliac crest

  • Gluteal surface of ilium (behind posterior gluteal line)

  • Dorsal surface of lower part of the sacrum

  • Side of coccyx

  • Sacrotuberous ligament

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Insertion

Function

  • Chief extensor of the hip

  • Essential for maintaining an erect posture

  • Lateral rotation of the hip

  • Abduction of the hip

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Clinical Significance

  • It plays an important role in optimal functioning of the human movement system as well as athletic performance because it is one part of the Posterior Oblique functional line system with Thoracolumbar Fascia and Latissimus Dorsi (Lats)

  • Helps stabilize the Sacroiliac (SI) and the Hip joints - If the Glute Max (GM) is under performing the SI joint may lock up due to lack of support from the GM.

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January 2025

 

                             

 

                              Pectoralis Minor

 

 

 

Origin:  Pectoralis minor muscle arises from the upper margins and outer surfaces of the 3rd, 4th, and 5th ribs near their costal cartilages, and from the aponeuroses covering the intercostalis

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Insertion:  Its tendon inserts onto the medial border and upper surface of the coracoid process of the scapula

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Function

-The pectoralis minor muscle helps with pushing, lifting, and stabilizing the shoulders and arms.

-It also depresses the shoulder point, drawing the scapula towards the thorax. 

 

Clinical Significance

-The pectoralis minor muscle is a surgical landmark because of the structures that lie below it. The nerves and blood supply to the upper limb run deep to the pectoralis minor muscle.

-When the nerves of the Brachial Plexus get pinched you feel a numbness and/or tingle in your hands and fingers

-Posture can cause the Pec Minor to tighten and then impinge nerves and Blood Vessels to the hand

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​​OCTOBER 2024

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                          PSOAS

 

 

 

Origin:  Transverse processes of T12–L4 and the lateral aspects of the discs between them                                                           Insertion:  In the lesser trochanter of the femur                                                                                                                                                        Artery:  lumbar branch of iliolumbar artery  

Nerve:  Lumbar plexus via anterior branches of L1–L3 nerves

Actions:  Flexion in the hip joint

 

Tightness of the psoas can result in spasms or lower-back pain by compressing the lumbar discs. A hypertonic and inflamed psoas can lead to irritation and entrapment of the ilioinguinal and the iliohypogastric nerves, resulting in a sensation of heat or water running down the front of the thigh.

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September 2024

 

 

                   Transverse Abdominus (TVA)

 

 

Origin:

-Lateral third of inguinal ligament and associated iliac fascia,

-Anterior two-third of the iliac crest,

-Thoracolumbar fascia

-Inner surface of lower six costal cartilage and their ribs(7-12)

 

Inserts

-Linea alba

-Aponeurosis of internal abdominal oblique muscle

-Pubic crest

-Pectinal line of pubis.

 

Function

This important muscle is responsible for maintaining proper placement of the abdom­inal contents as well as helping support the lower back.

With the other abdominal muscles, TrA helps to:

  • Maintain abdominal tension and support abdominal viscera

  • Increase intraabdominal pressure that is helpful in forceful expiration, coughing, defecation.

  • Support lumbopelvic during our movement, in concert with other core muscles[3].

  • Unilateral action: ipsilateral trunk rotation

 

NeuroKinetic Therapy Significance

The TVA is a important intrinsic core muscle that helps stabilize and protect the Lumbar Spine (L/S) during movement. When neurologically inhibited the L/S becomes unsupported and susceptible to injury. Other structures (muscles, joints, ligaments) also compensate and overwork. Overworked structures can lead to tightness, restriction, decreased function, myofascial trigger points, compressed nerves and more).

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