## Overview The multifidus muscles stabilize individual vertebral segments. Back pain causes rapid, segmental atrophy of these muscles that can persist even after the pain resolves, creating a cycle of instability and re-injury. Visible asymmetry or poor topline that does not respond to general exercise may be noted. ## What It Indicates Chronic or recent back pain leading to disuse of the deep spinal stabilizers. ## Diagnosis Ultrasound measurement of multifidus cross-sectional area, often asymmetric next to specific spinous processes. ## Treatment Targeted rehabilitation exercises that activate the multifidus, along with treatment of the original pain source. ## Recovery and Prognosis Muscle can be rebuilt with specific exercises, but recovery is slower than with general conditioning. ## Prevention Early treatment of back pain and inclusion of core-stability work.
visible or ultrasound-detected atrophy alongside specific spinous processes; poor topline unresponsive to general exercise; chronic back pain
## Overview The multifidus muscles stabilize individual vertebral segments. Back pain causes rapid, segmental atrophy of these muscles that can persist even after the pain resolves, creating a cycle of instability and re-injury. Visible asymmetry or poor topline that does not respond to general exercise may be noted. ## What It Indicates Chronic or recent back pain leading to disuse of the deep spinal stabilizers. ## Diagnosis Ultrasound measurement of multifidus cross-sectional area, often asymmetric next to specific spinous processes. ## Treatment Targeted rehabilitation exercises that activate the multifidus, along with treatment of the original pain source. ## Recovery and Prognosis Muscle can be rebuilt with specific exercises, but recovery is slower than with general conditioning. ## Prevention Early treatment of back pain and inclusion of core-stability work.
visible or ultrasound-detected atrophy alongside specific spinous processes; poor topline unresponsive to general exercise; chronic back pain