The MULTIFIDUS muscles take pressure off the vertebral discs so the body's weight can be distributed along the spine. This muscle group keeps the spine straight & contributes to the stability of the spine. These muscles are recruited in most actions of daily living, including bending backward, sideways & even turning to the side. Studies show the multifidus muscles are activated before any action is carried out to protect the spine from injury. When a person carries an item, before moving the arm, the mutifidus muscles starts contracting prior to the actual movement of the body. The arm prepares the spine for movement to prevent it from harm. Pilates is well known to exercises the multifidus.
By: Drew Michael, Pilates instructor at Cyclelates
