Rectifying RDLs Causing Lower Back Pain

The Romanian Deadlift (RDL) is a fundamental exercise targeting the posterior chain, which includes the hamstrings, glutes, and lower back muscles. It efficiently develops these muscles when performed correctly, enhancing strength and functional movement. However, incorrect form, especially in the RDL, can often result in lower back pain. This underscores the importance of proper technique to reap the benefits of the exercise and avoid potential injury.

The Basics of the Romanian Deadlift

The Romanian Deadlift (RDL) is a multi-joint compound resistance exercise primarily designed to target the lower posterior chain, specifically the hamstrings, glutes, and the stabilising muscles of the lower back. Functionally, it emphasises hip extension, making it invaluable for pushing, pulling, and lifting movements. The RDL is often incorporated as a secondary compound movement within a typical leg day regimen. One of its key advantages is its adaptability; its mechanics can be modified to suit individuals with a history of injury, offering a safer alternative to traditional deadlift variations while still providing the benefits of strength and muscular development.

Why Lower Back Pain from RDLs?

When executed correctly, Romanian Deadlifts engage the muscles of the lower posterior chain. However, the nature of the exercise can place significant stress on the lumbar region of the spine. This stress is accentuated when deviations from the correct form occur, making the lower back susceptible to injury and strain.

Proper form in RDLs is not merely about maximising muscle engagement but also ensuring that the spine, particularly the lumbar region, remains in a neutral and protected position throughout the movement. Any deviation, such as rounding the back or not hinging correctly at the hips, can shift undue stress to the lower back muscles and the intervertebral discs.

Moreover, the significance of a well-structured preparatory routine cannot be understated. A proper warm-up, combined with dynamic mobility drills, ensures that the muscles and joints are adequately prepared for the load and movement of the RDL. Neglecting this preparatory phase can further exacerbate the risk of lower back pain due to inadequate muscle activation and joint mobility.

The Lower Back’s Role in Romanian Deadlifts

The lower back is a critical Romanian Deadlift (RDL) stabiliser. Unlike exercises that directly target the lumbar region muscles, in the RDL, the lower back primarily ensures stability. It is an anchor, allowing other muscles, particularly in the posterior chain, to activate and generate force effectively.

Muscles Involved:

Several key muscles in the lumbar region play roles during the RDL:

1. Erector Spinae: A set of muscles and tendons that run the length of the spine on the posterior side, providing resistance against forward bending and assisting with upright posture.

2. Internal and External Obliques: Located on the sides of the abdomen, these muscles support rotational movements and lateral flexion but also aid in maintaining a neutral spine during RDLs.

3. Multifidus: Deep muscles that span multiple vertebral joints, providing stability and aiding in spinal extension and rotation.

Each of these muscles collaborates to ensure the spine remains neutral, especially under the load of the RDL, minimising the risk of undue flexion or extension that can lead to injuries.

Executing the RDL correctly necessitates a transfer of force from the primary movers (like the glutes and hamstrings) through the lower back to the upper body and the barbell. When there’s a breakdown in this force chain—often due to weak points or improper technique—the lower back can be compelled to compensate. Instead of merely acting as a stabiliser, it becomes a primary mover. This inappropriate transfer and distribution of force can significantly strain the lumbar muscles, increasing the risk of injuries, muscle strains, or more chronic issues.

Common Bad Habits Leading to Lower Back Pain

Hinging at the Waist:

Risks: If an individual hinges primarily at the waist rather than the hips, it disproportionately stresses the lumbar region. This not only places undue pressure on the spinal discs but also results in force misdirection, pulling away from the primary movers of the RDL.

Solutions: Practicing the hip hinge pattern without weight can reinforce correct mechanics. Incorporating posterior chain mobility exercises, such as hamstring stretches and glute activation drills, can also aid in achieving a more effective hinge.

Barbell Drifting Away:

Risks: When the barbell drifts away from the shins and thighs during the RDL, it increases the moment arm, exerting a more significant force on the lower back. This deviation intensifies the strain on the lumbar spine.

Solutions: Adjusting one’s stance to ensure the barbell remains close to the body throughout the movement is crucial. Enhancing forearm strength and grip technique can keep the barbell path straight and close.

Failing the Hip Hinge Mechanic:

Risks: The hip hinge is fundamental to the RDL. Neglecting or executing it poorly can divert forces away from the glutes and hamstrings and towards the lower back, creating a potential injury hazard.

Solutions: Revisiting the basics, like using dowels to practice the straight line from head to hip to heel, can be invaluable. Practising the motion with light resistance or body weight is also beneficial, focusing on pushing the hips back and thrusting forward.

Incorrect Core Bracing:

Risks: Failing to maintain intra-abdominal pressure during the RDL can compromise the spine’s stability. The lower back becomes vulnerable to shearing forces and potential injury without this bracing effect.

Solutions: Before lifting, individuals should practice taking a deep breath into their diaphragm and then bracing their core as if preparing for a punch to the stomach. This action helps create the necessary intra-abdominal pressure to support and protect the spine during heavy lifting.

Solutions for RDL induced Lower Back Pain

If you are experiencing sharp or unusual pain during the RDL, it is essential to stop the exercise immediately. Continuing can exacerbate the injury or introduce new ones.

After identifying lower back discomfort or pain post-RDL, allowing the muscles and soft tissues time to heal is crucial. This period helps in reducing inflammation and prevents potential long-term complications.

Rehabilitation Strategies:

Gradually reintroduce the exercise using lighter weights, focusing on perfecting form. This phase allows muscles to adapt and strengthens them against future strains.

Activities like gentle stretching targeted strengthening exercises, and low-impact cardiovascular exercises can aid in improving mobility and speeding up recovery. Specific movements like the cat-camel stretch, pelvic tilts, and core exercise can be beneficial.

RICE for Immediate Pain Relief:

An acronym for Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation. This approach can alleviate immediate discomfort:

Rest: Avoid any activities that exacerbate pain.
Ice: Apply cold packs for 15-20 minutes to reduce inflammation.
Compression: Lightly wrap the area, if possible, to minimise swelling.
Elevation: Elevating the affected area can help reduce swelling by allowing fluids to drain away.

Persistent or worsening pain, numbness, tingling, or radiating pain should be taken seriously. If symptoms like these persist or there’s any doubt about the injury’s severity, it’s essential to seek professional medical advice.

Alternatives to RDLs for Those with Persistent Pain

Even with impeccable form, some individuals may be more predisposed to lower back discomfort during RDLs due to individual anatomy, prior injuries, or other underlying conditions.

Single-Leg Romanian Deadlift (SLRDL):

The SLRDL targets the same muscles as the traditional RDL but introduces an element of balance. This variation can reduce the load on the spine and allow individuals to focus on one side at a time, aiding in muscle imbalance correction.

This can be incorporated into leg days or posterior chain-focused workouts. Beginners should start without weights to master the balance aspect.

Hip Thrusts:

Hip thrusts primarily target the glutes, hamstrings, and core while reducing the strain on the lower back. The focus is on hip extension, closely mimicking the top part of the RDL movement.

Replace RDLs with hip thrusts on leg or glute-focused days. Ensure a warm-up is done before heavy loading to prep the muscles.

These exercises can be swapped in place of RDLs or integrated as supplementary exercises to maintain a well-rounded routine and target the posterior chain. Periodic rotation of exercises also introduces muscle confusion, which can benefit growth and strength gains. Ensure correct form and consider personal training if unsure about execution.