In Lower Cross Syndrome, which muscle group is typically lengthened?

In Lower Cross Syndrome, which muscle group is typically lengthened?

• A. Hip flexors, latissimus dorsi, and lower back
• B. Quadriceps, hamstrings
• C. Abdominals, gluteus maximus, gluteus medius
• D. Pectoralis major, anterior deltoid

Answer: (C)

Lower Cross Syndrome creates an imbalance where the front of the body tightens and pulls the pelvis into an anterior tilt, while the muscles on the opposite side become weak and lengthened. The abdominals and the gluteal muscles (gluteus maximus and gluteus medius) are the ones that end up lengthened and weak, reducing pelvic and lower spine stability. That’s why the group listed as lengthened—abdominals and glutes—is the best answer. The other options describe muscles that are typically tight or affected in different patterns (hip flexors and lower back are usually shortened; the quadriceps and hamstrings aren’t the classic lengthened pair in this syndrome; the chest/front shoulder muscles relate more to upper-cross patterns).

Lower Cross Syndrome creates an imbalance where the front of the body tightens and pulls the pelvis into an anterior tilt, while the muscles on the opposite side become weak and lengthened. The abdominals and the gluteal muscles (gluteus maximus and gluteus medius) are the ones that end up lengthened and weak, reducing pelvic and lower spine stability. That’s why the group listed as lengthened—abdominals and glutes—is the best answer. The other options describe muscles that are typically tight or affected in different patterns (hip flexors and lower back are usually shortened; the quadriceps and hamstrings aren’t the classic lengthened pair in this syndrome; the chest/front shoulder muscles relate more to upper-cross patterns).