The glutes are the largest muscles in our body. Underusing these important tissues can ultimately lead to knee and back pain. And when we sit for long periods of time, they can basically “forget” to fire and support the pelvis a condition known as gluteus medius tendinopathy, gluteal amnesia, or dead butt syndrome (DBS). That’s right: Dead butt syndrome is real! And although it mostly affects the sedentary, active people may also experience DBS if they sit for hours at a time.
Our glutes are responsible for acceleration and balance when we move. They’re also key for supporting our back, our sacrum, our core, the healthy functioning of our lower joints, and even for stimulating the pelvic floor. Lack of effective glute engagement may tilt the pelvis and cause strain on the low back or knees even in some of our favorite yoga poses.