Compensation Deficiency - Glute Amnesia Syndrome
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As mentioned above, Glute Amnesia Syndrome is a Movement Dysfunction where the Gluteus or Posterior Hip Muscles are not used enough, therefore inhibiting, or “turning off,” the neuromuscular connections
The neuromuscular connections do not truly turn off; instead, the body remodels its Motor Behavior (neuromuscular coordination) to use an alternate pattern of Motor Control to perform certain tasks. Over time, this pattern of compensation is solidified as a pattern of Motor Behavior or it becomes a ‘Movement Habit’ in which an individual neglects to activate and use his or her Glutes (Hip Muscles) to execute specific movements including squatting, lunging, and running.
RX: Practice a combination of soft tissue therapy and effective stretching techniques on the following overactive and/or tight muscles: Quadriceps (Anterior Leg Muscles), Psoas (Deep Hip Flexor), Tensor Fasciae Latae (TFL – Superficial Hip Flexor), the Adductor Complex (Groin Muscles), Peroneals (Lateral Calf Muscles), and Biceps Femoris (Lateral Hamstring Muscles).
Next, practice Activation exercises to strengthen and facilitate proper firing sequences of the following underactive muscles: Gluteus Complex (Posterior Hip Muscle), Piriformis (Posterior Hip Muscle), Semitendinosus (Medial/Middle Hamstring Muscles), Gastrocnemius (Calf Muscles), the Intrinsic Foot Muscles, and Transverse Abdominis/Obliques (Core Muscles).
Finally, practice a variety of exercises integrating these underactive muscles with larger Movement Patterns, including squatting, lunging/step-ups, jumping, running, and even standing. Also, challenge stability, coordination, and balance with single-leg and/or Change of Direction (C.O.D.) exercises.