Why is the psoas minor muscle absent in some people?

There are a few possible reasons why the psoas minor muscle may be absent in some people. These include genetic variations, developmental anomalies, and traumatic injuries.

1. Genetic variations

The psoas minor is a small muscle located in the abdomen. It originates from the lumbar vertebrae and inserts into the iliacus muscle. It is involved in flexing the hip joint and is thought to play a role in stabilizing the spine.

Some people are born with a genetic variation that results in the absence of the psoas minor muscle. This is a rare condition and does not usually cause any symptoms. However, people who are missing the psoas minor muscle may be more likely to experience low back pain or hip pain.

2. Developmental anomalies

During embryonic development, the psoas minor muscle may not develop properly. This can be caused by a number of factors, including environmental toxins, nutritional deficiencies, and hormonal imbalances.

Developmental anomalies of the psoas minor muscle can range in severity from a slight hypoplasia (underdevelopment) to a complete absence of the muscle. The most common developmental anomaly of the psoas minor muscle is a unilateral absence, which means that the muscle is missing on one side of the body only.

3. Traumatic injuries

The psoas minor muscle can also be injured in a traumatic accident. This type of injury is most common in car accidents, falls, and sports injuries.

Traumatic injuries to the psoas minor muscle can range in severity from a minor strain to a complete rupture of the muscle. Minor injuries usually resolve with rest and ice, while more severe injuries may require surgery.

Conclusion

The psoas minor muscle is a small muscle located in the abdomen that is involved in flexing the hip joint. It is absent in some people due to genetic variations, developmental anomalies, or traumatic injuries. Most people who are missing the psoas minor muscle do not experience any symptoms, but some people may be more likely to experience low back pain or hip pain.