Muscle Imbalance
What is Muscle Imbalance?
In your body, sets of muscles attach to a joint to give them stability and align your body in the most efficient manner. This is similar to riding a bike, where the control and balance of your bike frame is provided by the synchronisation of the handlebars.When one side of opposing muscles is stronger than the other, it leads to an internal imbalance. Say you more regular use one side of a group of muscles, or naturally favour that side (for example to carry children, drive a manual car or regularly use your preferred hand to lift things), it will be become stronger – but also shorter and tighter. On the other side, the opposing muscle will become weaker, longer and loose. This disproportion in strength of the muscle around the joints can eventually had additional side affects such as bad posture.
What can contribute to it?
Certain factors which can contribute to and create imbalances within the body include:
- Level of activity
- Repetitive things done on a regular or daily basis
- Degree and type of exercise you complete
- Your preference and way you sit, stand and walk
Typically people who lead a sedentary lifestyle or who actively work out are more prone to develop this condition.
Consequences of Muscle Imbalance?
Muscle imbalance is often the gateway into many other conditions which often cause pain or discomfort. These include:
- IT band syndrome
- SI joint syndrome
- Sciatica
- Frozen shoulder
- Knee pain
- Hip pain
- Back pain
How can a physio help?
If you suffer from pain caused by muscle imbalance your physio can work with you come up with a plan to restore the strength to your weaker muscles. If you have any questions about muscle imbalance or how our team call help please feel free to give us a call on 9246 0882.
