![]() ![]() We want a neutral spine position through the stretch – for most dogs, this will look like a straight line. It will look like a banana from the side – take a video to check your dog’s technique. If your elevated surface is too high, or your lure is incorrect, you may be unwittingly encouraging extension through your dog’s back. Don’t try to get them to back off the platform. If you don’t get it right, reset and start again. If your dog keeps jumping up on the platform, use your body and lure hand (like I have in the video) to slow them down and direct them / block them from jumping up. Allow them to “break” out of the stretch (have a rest, walk it off) then reset and repeat 3-5 times.Hold the position for 5 seconds (beginner) to 30 seconds (more advanced).Use a lure to encourage your dog to reach a little and stretch their hip flexors (lure them 1-2 inches following the angle of their spine).Their front legs need to be on a stable platform / elevated surface – small dogs may only need their front feet on a book, while larger dogs it may be a step or chair.To stretch the iliopsoas your dog’s front legs need to be higher than their back legs.For example, when your dog places their front feet up on your lap for cuddles, they’re actively stretching their hip flexors. Stretching the Iliopsoas Active Hip Flexor Stretch – Front Feet Up ExerciseĪn active hip flexor stretch is when your dog is actively participating in the stretch. It can be performed actively or passively. Stretching the iliopsoas requires the hip joint to be extended so that your dog’s rear leg is stretched out behind them (like the picture above on the right). These muscles originate from the front of the lower back (psoas) and pelvis (iliacus) and attach via a common tendon to the top of the thigh (iliopsoas). It is a collection of two main muscles, the psoas, and iliacus. If your dog has any lameness or is diagnosed with a musculoskeletal condition, please talk to your vet or rehab professional prior to starting any new exercises or stretches. * This article is meant for healthy dogs. This article will look at how to stretch your dog’s iliopsoas (hip flexors). Regular stretches can help keep your dog’s iliopsoas loose and help to prevent injuries. The iliopsoas can become injured by a primary strain/tear, or secondary to a low back, hip, or knee issue. They also work to as a ‘brake’ to stop the rear limb (and low back) from over-extending during a gallop and explosive movements. The hip flexors are a group of muscles that attach to your dog’s thigh and are key players in moving the rear limb forward. The iliopsoas is one of the main hip flexor muscles in a dog.
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