The Postural Restoration Institute identifies that humans by nature are asymmetrical. We have a large heavy liver in the right lower aspect of our abdomen, and a heart situated to the left in the upper chest cavity. We have a diaphragm that is larger and stronger on the right, and as a result is better situated for respiration. There are three lobes of lungs on the right and two on the left. Furthermore, the left half of the brain is dominant in controlling our movement with a predisposition to right stance and right hand use and reaching.
This asymmetry is considered normal, however, due to compensation through our daily activity, sedentary lifestyles, and repetitive overuse within these asymmetries we can become rigid in this pattern and no longer move freely from our right to left sides.
The result of this imbalance can create abnormal stress on joints, muscles, tendons and ligaments leading to restricted motion, difficulty with normal movement, dysfunction and pain. As an athlete this translates into difficulty producing optimal rang e of motion, stability, accuracy and power. As a human this leads to difficulty with normal function, increased potential for pain, and an overall problem with our well being.