Welcome back! If you read last week's post about the psoas (you can read it here), we mentioned Sartorius at the very end. I am very excited to share some information about this amazing muscle! Sartorius tends to fly under the radar and doesn't always get the attention it deserves. Despite its slender appearance, this muscle is a key player in lower-body mobility and balance.
The sartorius is famous for being the longest muscle in the human body. It begins at the front side of the pelvis, an area called the anterior superior iliac spine (ASIS), then runs diagonally across the front of the thigh, and inserts at an area called pes anserinus on the medial side of the tibia (inner shin area).
*FUN FACT* Its distinctive shape gives it the nickname the “tailor’s muscle”—a nod to the cross-legged sitting position tailors traditionally used, which engages the sartorius.
This incredible muscle is quite the multi-tasker. It assists with several movements of the hip and knee. Its main actions include:
Basically, anytime you’re sitting cross-legged, climbing stairs, or pivoting your leg outward, your sartorius is at work. Starting to see why we love combining this one with the psoas?
Even though the sartorius is a superficial muscle, it can be tricky to pinpoint. It works closely with deeper muscles and sometimes gets overshadowed by larger muscles when assessing lower-body tension or pain.
Common complaints that we get that may involve the sartorius include:
When I am drawn to work with the sartorius, I take a gentle and mindful approach because it is right next to sensitive structures like nerves and blood vessels. Here’s how I typically address it:
To support your precious sartorius muscle, here are some suggestions:
So there you have it! A short and sweet overview of the sartorius muscle. While the sartorius may not be the star of the show compared to bigger muscles, we hope you now understand the supporting role it plays in your body.
Don't worry. I hear your thoughts. "Becky, I still don't understand why you work this one with the psoas." Well, let me tell you. They have a very big job in common. Flexing the hip. I feel that by working those surrounding muscles that do common actions, they truly support each other in releasing tension. It is super important to work the body as a whole. We need the body to work as a whole unit to be able to gain balance and homeostasis.
Wishing you rest and renewal, Becky
You know the drill. You come in for your massage. We get you checked in and you might get asked to sit in our Relaxation Room. Then your massage therapist comes to get you and shows you to your room. Depending on if it is your first time or maybe your thirtieth time visiting, we may ask a number of questions. How you are feeling, any areas you would like focused and many others. As we are listening to you describe what is going on, we are formulating a plan on what we will be working on during your time with us. Over the last few weeks, a muscle that has be a popular one to work on is the Psoas.
There is a psoas major and psoas minor. The one we are talking about is psoas major. It is a deep core muscle that begins at the lumbar vertebrae (your low back) and wraps through the hip attaching to the femur (the upper, inner thigh).
Psoas functions include:
While writing this post, I read that the psoas is often referred to as the “muscle of the soul” because of its deep connection to our fight-or-flight response (another post for another day). Stress from daily repetitive movements can cause it to contract and tighten, which is why so many people experience persistent lower back or hip discomfort without a clear cause.
Common issues we see with a tight psoas include:
Working with the psoas requires skill, sensitivity and confidence. Now, I need you to listen to me. I'm not going to sugar coat this. The psoas is a beast! It can be very uncomfortable and no fun to have worked. But believe me! You will feel so much relief from having it worked. Unlike the quads or hamstrings that are superficial muscles, the psoas is tucked deep within the abdomen, near vital organs, vertebrae and delicate tissues. This is why it can be uncomfortable and not for everyone. If you have certain medical conditions, this isn't going to be for you.
Here are a few principles I follow when addressing psoas-related tension:
I love to empower my clients with self-care strategies. Here are some simple stretches to support your psoas:
Here we are at the end. You have learned the psoas may be hidden deep within the body, but its impact is profound. Whether you are experiencing lower back pain, tight hips, or general postural issues, listening to the psoas—and treating it with care and respect—can unlock deep patterns of tension and restore balance from the inside out.
You may be saying, "But Becky. You didn't explain why you call it the longest muscle in the body. It's not the longest muscle in the body." Well, thats because one of it's dearest friends is called Sartorius and I tend to work those together. And the Sartorius my friends, IS the longest muscle in the body. We will get into the Sartorius another day though.
If you’ve never explored the role of your psoas before, consider bringing it up in your next session—it might be the missing link to greater comfort and freedom in your body!
Wishing you rest and renewal, Becky
