📚 Topic Summary
Muscle imbalance occurs when one muscle group is stronger than its opposing muscle group. This can lead to altered movement patterns, pain, and increased risk of injury. Common causes include repetitive movements, poor posture, and lack of exercise. Corrective exercises aim to strengthen the weaker muscles and stretch the tighter ones, restoring balance and improving overall function. Addressing muscle imbalances can significantly improve your quality of life and athletic performance.
🧠 Part A: Vocabulary
Match the following terms with their correct definitions:
| Term |
Definition |
| 1. Hypertonicity |
A. The state of increased muscle relaxation, often leading to instability. |
| 2. Hypotonicity |
B. The process of restoring balance to opposing muscle groups through targeted exercises. |
| 3. Postural Deviation |
C. A condition of excessive muscle tension, often contributing to pain and limited range of motion. |
| 4. Corrective Exercise |
D. A departure from the ideal alignment of the body, frequently resulting from muscle imbalances. |
| 5. Synergist |
E. A muscle that assists a prime mover in performing a specific action. |
(Answers: 1-C, 2-A, 3-D, 4-B, 5-E)
💪 Part B: Fill in the Blanks
Complete the following paragraph using the words provided: strengthening, posture, flexibility, imbalances, pain.
Muscle _________ can lead to a variety of issues, including _________ and limited range of motion. Addressing these issues often involves _________ weaker muscles and improving _________ in tighter ones. Maintaining good _________ is also crucial in preventing and correcting muscle imbalances.
(Answers: imbalances, pain, strengthening, flexibility, posture)
🤔 Part C: Critical Thinking
Describe a specific muscle imbalance you suspect you may have and explain what steps you could take to address it.