Are you interested in learning how to perform squats at the gym without putting yourself at risk for a back injury? Well, it's crucial to have a comprehensive understanding of all the different aspects involved in this exercise. One key element is maintaining a neutral position for your back, which helps prevent excessive strain on your spine. However, there's an important fact: achieving a 100% neutral spine posture is practically impossible, as studies have revealed. The key is to strive for the closest approximation possible.

Now, let me share another secret with you. It's essential to consider other joints that come into play during squats, such as the hips, knees, and ankles. If any of these joints have limited mobility or unfavorable movement patterns, your back is likely to suffer as a result. For example, if you have a restricted dorsiflexion range of motion, which means you struggle to raise your toes toward the ceiling, other joints will compensate, potentially leading to injury. Additionally, stiffness in the hip muscles can cause the back and hips to move together instead of operating as separate joints.

Achieving proper squat posture and pre- venting potential injury requires striking the right balance of closed chain hip flexion, dorsiflexion, and knee flexion, while also ensuring neutral positions for these joints. It is crucial to prioritize optimal mobility among all the mentioned joints to promote squat posture and avoid injury.

For more information: Kyle S. Kasman, PT, DPT, Board-Certified Orthopedic Clinical Specialist. 484-781-5341, Kyle@Light- ThePathPhysicalTherapy.com.