Definition of Muscle Shortening

It is known as muscle shortening to the relative decrease in the length of a muscle.

It manifests as a loss of mobility of the muscle, this may be due to an alteration of the muscle itself or of the membrane that covers it called fascia.

Why does muscle shortening occur?

Muscles can change in size thanks to their ability to contract. Muscle contraction is a process that occurs when muscle fibers move over each other. When a muscle contracts it must in turn slide over the surrounding muscles.

To facilitate this process, the muscular system consists of a series of membranes that cover the muscles and their fibers, this allows them to be isolated or separated from the surrounding structures, facilitating the movement.

Muscle involvement. Many times muscle injuries that cause scars or adhesions, either due to trauma or surgery, limit the movement of a part of the muscle, leading to its shortening. Muscles can also be shortened by disorders

that cause rigidity or spasticity, which can present as a sequela of neurological disorders, mainly the accidents cerebrovascular and disease Parkinson's.

Involvement of the fascia or muscle envelope. The fasciae are structures formed by collagen, which makes them very firm and resistant. These can be injured in the course of trauma or surgery, which can cause a fibrosis process that makes it more rigid. The fascias are also affected by situations such as tension emotional and sustained stress.

Some muscles are more likely to shorten

Some muscles are essential to maintain postures and Balance in normal daily activities such as to walk, to sit or simply to stand or stand upright.

These muscles must have some degree of constant contraction, known as muscle tone, which makes them more susceptible to shortening. They include the muscles located in the front of the arms as well as those of the back, buttocks, and back of the thigh and leg.

Muscle shortening can affect performance and health

Muscle shortening compromises the function and normal development of the muscle, leading to less performance and less development. force.

Shortened muscles result in muscle use accessories to execute movements, causing pain in distant areas.

How is muscle shortening treated

The best way to counteract muscle shortening is by implementing a rehabilitation plan.

Stretching and massage techniques are of great help, however they may become necessary for a while since the Muscle shortening should be managed with caution to avoid injuries such as tears resulting from mobilizations abrupt.

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