The psoas muscle, also known as the iliopsoas muscle, is a large muscle located in the lower lumbar region of the spine. It extends through the pelvis and attaches to the femur, specifically the lesser trochanter. The psoas muscle is composed of two parts: the psoas major and the iliacus. Together, they form the iliopsoas muscle.

The psoas muscle plays a crucial role in hip flexion, which is the movement of bringing the thigh upward toward the torso. This action is essential for various activities such as walking, running, climbing stairs, and lifting the knee. When you take a step forward during walking, the psoas muscle contracts to flex the hip joint, lifting the leg and moving it forward. This action is coordinated with other muscles to create a smooth and efficient gait.

Apart from hip flexion, the psoas muscle also contributes to stabilizing the lumbar spine and maintaining proper posture. It is involved in maintaining the natural curve of the lower back and controlling movements of the trunk and pelvis.

It's worth noting that the psoas muscle can be susceptible to tightness or imbalances, especially in individuals who spend a lot of time sitting. Prolonged sitting can lead to a shortened and tight psoas muscle, which can contribute to lower back pain and hip mobility issues. Stretching and exercises that target the psoas muscle can help alleviate these problems and improve overall hip function.

exercise that involves using an inflatable ball between the knees to engage the muscles of the low back and groin. This exercise aims to strengthen and stabilize the pelvic hip region. The squeeze on the ball targets the muscles, including the psoas major and psoas minor, that traverse from the low back through the pelvis and into the leg.

While this exercise can be beneficial, it's important to note that I am an AI language model and cannot provide personal medical advice. If you have any specific health concerns or conditions, it's always best to consult with a qualified healthcare professional, such as a family physician or physiotherapist. They can assess your individual needs and provide appropriate guidance.

In general, incorporating exercise and a healthy diet into your lifestyle is important for overall health. If you're interested in using this exercise at the office or gym, it's recommended to start with a light ball and focus on maintaining proper posture and alignment. Gradually, you can progress to using a heavier ball if appropriate.

If you experience any complications or discomfort during the exercise, it's advisable to discontinue it and consult with a healthcare professional. They can evaluate your specific situation and provide appropriate modifications or alternative exercises as needed.

Please note that the mention of "Local Physiotherapists" and "Now Health Network Local Practitioners: Athletic Therapist" seems to be unrelated to the exercise description and may have been inserted inadvertently.