Chapter 6: Muscle Balance, Posture and Stability

Question 1

What are the four causes of muscle imbalances?

Answer 1

1) Constant Workload - Holding slow twitch, stabilizer muscles held in one position for extended periods causes the affected area to feel tight and inflexible when overused.

2) Insufficient Activation - Reduced activation or usage of the stability or postural muscle; the muscles become weak with neuromuscular inefficiency.

3) Tight Muscles Lead to Muscle Imbalances - The tight muscle will overpower the lengthened, passive opposing muscle group compromising joint stability.

4) Weak Muscles Lead to Muscle Imbalances - The strong muscle will overpower the weak opposing muscle group compromising joint stability. Weakness often means that there is abnormal proprioceptive input to that joint which can lead to instability of the joint.

Question 2

Finding Neutral Position and Proper Alignment (6)

Answer 2

• Keep their chin parallel with the ground as they pull the head back and lengthen the back of the neck.
• Slightly lift the sternum and open the chest as the shoulders move back and sway from the ears.
• Place the shoulder blades in the back pocket.
• Draw the belly button toward the spine to move the pelvis into the neutral position, keeping the gluteals relaxed.
• Keep the knees soft.
• Weight should be over the centre of the feet, not over the heels, toes, or inside edges of the feet.