Muscle Imbalances
Serving the Greater Los Angeles County Area including La Verne, Claremont, Glendora, San Dimas, CA
When a muscle or muscle group is stronger than its opposing muscle/group, this is known as a muscle imbalance. A muscle imbalance can occur anywhere there’s a muscle: the shoulders, back, legs, and so on.
While a muscle imbalance might not seem like a big deal, it can trigger pain, joint or tendon instability, and strain during daily activities. As a result, it can have a negative effect on one’s professional life, sleep, fitness routine, and even their daily life.
While not necessarily dangerous, shin splints are usually a sign from the body of the legs being overworked, signifying rest is in order.
Muscle Imbalances
- What Are the Symptoms of a Muscle Imbalance?
Muscle imbalance symptoms can include uneven muscle tone, chronic pain, irritated tendons or joints, weakness in the affected muscle, reduced range of motion, or the opposing limb being noticeably and unusually stronger than the other.
Dealing with recurring minor injuries on one side, unequal stride while walking, or trouble maintaining proper form during workouts can also signify an underlying muscle imbalance.
- What Are Muscle Imbalances Caused By?
Muscle imbalances are usually caused by repetitive movements. They are not uncommon in those who play sports or have jobs involving physical labor or repetitive motions, like construction or office work.
An imbalanced muscle or muscle group is also more common in those with poor posture, who’ve had previous muscle injuries, or have specific structural or genetic factors which may predispose them to imbalances. Even certain lifestyle habits, like sleeping in an unbalanced sleeping position, can trigger or worsen a muscle imbalance.
- Is it Safe to Workout with a Muscle Imbalance?
Yes, working out is generally safe when one has a muscle imbalance. However, proper form, progressively increasing exercise intensity, and avoiding overtraining are crucial.
Those with an existing muscle imbalance are also recommended to stretch tight muscles before and after working out, focus on strengthening weak muscles, and engage in mobility exercises to correct uneven muscles.
When in doubt about engaging in a certain exercise with a muscle imbalance, reach out to a doctor for advice. In addition, if you experience worsening symptoms during or after engaging in a specific workout, it’s often advised to stop or reduce engagement in such activity.
- Are There Any Wellness Services to Help with Muscle Imbalances?
Yes, there are wellness services available to aid with muscle imbalances. For those experiencing tight muscles and a limited range of motion, we recommend percussion therapy or cupping. For general muscle imbalances or stiffness in the limbs, consider guided mobility stretching. We also offer wellness services to reduce aches and pain.
Recovery Lab is dedicated to helping Southern California residents experience relief, find balance, and receive support on their recovery journey. Contact us today to book your first wellness session.
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