Length
tension relationships are at the root of each joint in the body. Our
musculature forms a system of levers which pull on the joints at opposing
angles to create stability while we navigate position. Healthy length
tension relationships exist when our muscular recruitment patterns are optimal.
This results in a coordinated synergy of levers to articulate our range of
motion. In any given joint, surrounding musculature both facilitates and
inhibits a given movement.
Joints
are controlled by opposing sets of muscles, agonists and antagonists.
These muscle groups balance each other to create motion at the joints. As
one muscle lengthens, the other shortens. The quadriceps facilitates extension
of the knee by acting as the agonist.
The hamstrings, however, have an inhibitory effect on this movement by opposing
the quadriceps, acting as the antagonist.
The quadriceps and the hamstrings oppose one another, acting as contralateral
pressures.
This principle is called Reciprocal
Inhibition. So long as this relationship is healthy, stress will be
evenly distributed across the knee joint. Herein lies the essence of a
length tension relationship.
This
relationship between muscle groups is found throughout all joints of the human
body, and healthy tissues maintain healthy length-tension relationships at each
joint. However, when we suffer an injury, we experience Altered
Reciprocal Inhibition, meaning that a restricted agonist
inhibits the neural drive to its functional antagonist. This alters
neuromuscular patterning and affects movement of the joint in question.
This
same relationship holds true in the joints and corresponding muscles of the
lumbar spine.
The
flexors and extensors of the spine maintain intervertebral stiffness and
stability within the joints, and injuries to the low back alter the
relationship between these muscles in a very predictable pattern.
Several
clinical studies have demonstrated decreased firing of the Transverse
Abdominus, Psoas, Internal Oblique,
and Multifidi muscles in individuals with Chronic
Low Back Pain.
On
an individual level, we build the training process to assess and improve length
tension relationships. Kinesthetic awareness is a valuable skill which
requires cultivation and practice. Through time and proper training, we come to
know more of the unique myofascial relationships which dictate joint health,
like a personalized fingerprint which provides insight into our exercise
programming and volume specifications.
Myofascial restriction presents structural consequences not only to local
musculature, but along global myofascial meridians spanning up and down the
body. Directing and improving your myofascial structure is a key step in
balancing your kinetic chain for more efficient movement, less pain, and
optimal performance.
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