Maigne Syndrome: Causes, Symptoms, and Chiropractic Treatment for Lower Back, Hip, and Groin Pain

Maigne Syndrome: The Overlooked Cause of Lower Back, Hip, and Groin Pain

If you’ve been experiencing persistent lower back, hip, or groin pain that hasn’t responded to traditional treatments, you might be dealing with a commonly overlooked condition called Maigne Syndrome. At Neurohealth Wellness, we understand how debilitating chronic pain can be, and we’re here to help you find the root cause and an effective solution.

What is Maigne Syndrome?

Maigne Syndrome, also known as thoracolumbar junction syndrome, occurs when the nerves at the transition between the thoracic and lumbar spine become irritated. This region, called the thoracolumbar junction (TLJ), plays a crucial role in spinal stability and movement. Dysfunction here can refer pain to the lower back, hips, groin, and even the abdomen.

Dr. Robert Maigne, a French physician, first described this syndrome, recognising that pain originating from the TLJ often mimicked other conditions, leading to misdiagnosis. Many patients undergo unnecessary treatments for hip or sacroiliac joint pain when the true source lies higher in the spine.

Common Symptoms of Maigne Syndrome

Since Maigne Syndrome involves nerve irritation, symptoms can present in seemingly unrelated areas. Patients commonly report:

• Lower back pain – typically on one side, often mistaken for sacroiliac joint dysfunction.
• Hip or outer thigh pain – referred pain from the TLJ can mimic hip joint issues.
• Groin or lower abdominal pain – irritation of the superior cluneal nerves can cause discomfort in the groin, sometimes mistaken for a hernia or pelvic issue.
• Pain when sitting for long periods – due to nerve sensitivity and postural strain.
• Tenderness over the TLJ (T12-L1 vertebrae) – pain on palpation of this area is a key diagnostic clue.

Causes and Risk Factors

Several factors can contribute to dysfunction at the TLJ, including:

• Poor posture – prolonged sitting, slouching, and lack of movement can create strain.
• Spinal misalignment – mechanical dysfunction at the T12-L1 junction can lead to nerve irritation.
• Previous injuries – falls, car accidents, or sports injuries may affect spinal mechanics.
• Repetitive movements – activities that involve excessive twisting or bending.
• Weak core muscles – insufficient core stability can place extra stress on the TLJ.

Differential Diagnosis: How is Maigne Syndrome Different?

Because Maigne Syndrome mimics other conditions, it is often misdiagnosed as:

• Sciatica – Sciatica is caused by compression of the sciatic nerve in the lower back, whereas Maigne Syndrome originates higher in the spine.
• Hip bursitis – Unlike bursitis, Maigne Syndrome does not involve inflammation of the hip joint but referred nerve pain.
• Sports hernias or pelvic issues – Many people with groin pain are misdiagnosed with a hernia, when the issue actually stems from TLJ nerve irritation.

How Chiropractic Care at Neurohealth Wellness Can Help

At Neurohealth Wellness, we take a holistic and hands-on approach to treating Maigne Syndrome. Our chiropractors are trained to assess and treat the TLJ dysfunction responsible for your pain.

1. Chiropractic Adjustments

Spinal manipulation at the thoracolumbar junction can help restore proper movement, alleviate nerve irritation, and reduce referred pain to the lower body.

2. Soft Tissue Therapy

Techniques such as myofascial release and trigger point therapy can help relieve tension in the muscles surrounding the affected nerves.

3. Rehabilitation Exercises

We design personalised exercise programs to strengthen the core and improve spinal stability, reducing the risk of recurring issues. Exercises such as plank variations, bird-dogs, and deep abdominal strengthening can help maintain spinal integrity.

4. Postural and Lifestyle Advice

Our chiropractors provide guidance on ergonomics, posture correction, and movement strategies to prevent strain on the TLJ. Simple adjustments, like using a lumbar-supporting chair, taking frequent movement breaks, and engaging in regular core exercises, can make a significant difference.

5. Acupuncture

For patients experiencing nerve-related pain, acupuncture, provided by our specialist Lucia, can be an effective complementary therapy to reduce inflammation and promote healing.

Case Study: A Real-Life Example

Jane, a 42-year-old office worker, came to Neurohealth Wellness with persistent right-sided lower back and hip pain that had not improved with physiotherapy. She had undergone imaging and was previously diagnosed with sacroiliac dysfunction, but treatment had limited success. After a thorough assessment, our chiropractors identified Maigne Syndrome as the underlying cause. Through chiropractic adjustments, targeted exercises, and postural corrections, Jane experienced significant pain relief within weeks, regaining her mobility and comfort.

Preventative Measures for Long-Term Relief

Preventing Maigne Syndrome from recurring involves:

• Regular movement – Avoid prolonged sitting by taking standing breaks every 30-60 minutes.
• Core strengthening – Strengthening the deep abdominal and back muscles to support the spine.
• Proper posture – Ensuring an ergonomic workspace setup and maintaining good posture.
• Stretching and mobility exercises – Incorporating gentle spinal stretches to maintain flexibility.
• Regular chiropractic care – Periodic check-ups to keep spinal alignment in check.

Why Choose Neurohealth Wellness?

Located on the Northern Beaches of Sydney, Neurohealth Wellness is dedicated to helping you live pain-free and regain mobility. Our experienced team, including Dr. Steve, Dr. Tristan Bukovec, and Dr. Lucinda, take a patient-centred approach, ensuring your treatment is tailored to your needs.

Book Your Consultation Today

If you suspect you may have Maigne Syndrome or have been struggling with unresolved lower back, hip, or groin pain, our team at Neurohealth Wellness is here to help.

📅 Book an appointment today: Online Booking
📍 Visit us at: 33-35 Kentwell Rd, Allambie Heights
📞 Call us at: (02) 9905 9099
📧 Email us at: info@neurohealthwellness.com.au

Final Thoughts

Maigne Syndrome is often missed in diagnosis, leaving many people struggling with chronic pain. Fortunately, chiropractic care offers an effective, non-invasive approach to addressing the root cause of the issue. At Neurohealth Wellness, we are committed to providing expert care to help you move freely and live without pain. Don’t let undiagnosed pain hold you back—get in touch today!

References

1. Maigne, R. (1980). "Thoracolumbar Junction Syndrome." Journal of Manual & Manipulative Therapy.
2. Bogduk, N. (1997). "Clinical Anatomy of the Lumbar Spine and Sacrum." Churchill Livingstone.
3. Lorme, S., et al. (2018). "Referred Pain Patterns in Thoracolumbar Junction Syndrome." Journal of Pain Research.
4. Manchikanti, L., et al. (2020). "Diagnosis and Treatment of Spinal Pain." Pain Physician.
5. Chou, R., et al. (2016). "Noninvasive Treatments for Low Back Pain." Annals of Internal Medicine.
6. van Tulder, M., et al. (2018). "Exercise Therapy for Chronic Low Back Pain." The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews.
7. Akuthota, V., et al. (2008). "Core Stability Exercise Principles." Current Sports Medicine Reports.

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