Anatomical trains

Anatomical trains and muscle imbalance syndrome are closely related concepts:

Anatomical Trains:

- Describe the myofascial meridians, or lines of pull, that connect muscles and fascia across the body

- Identify how muscles work together to produce movement and maintain posture

Muscle Imbalance Syndrome:

- Refers to the altered length, strength, or activation patterns of muscles within an anatomical train

- Can lead to poor posture, movement dysfunction, and increased injury risk

Muscle imbalances within an anatomical train can disrupt the normal functioning of the entire train, leading to:

1. Altered movement patterns

2. Poor posture

3. Increased stress on specific joints or muscles

4. Overcompensation and further muscle imbalances

Common anatomical trains affected by muscle imbalances:

1. Superficial Back Line (SBL): affects posture, shoulder movement, and lower back stability

2. Deep Front Line (DFL): impacts core stability, hip movement, and pelvic floor function

3. Lateral Line (LL): influences hip and pelvis movement, and lower back stability

4. Spiral Line (SL): affects rotational movement, shoulder stability, and thoracic spine mobility

Addressing muscle imbalances within anatomical trains involves:

1. Identifying and addressing muscle imbalances through stretching, strengthening, and neuromuscular re-education

2. Improving fascial mobility and reducing restrictions

3. Enhancing proprioception and movement awareness

4. Re-training movement patterns to optimize anatomical train function