Movement Asymmetries: From Their Molecular Origin to the Analysis of Movement Asymmetries in Athletes
Author:
Egoyan Alexander1, Parulava Giorgi1, Baker Steven2, Gilhen-Baker Melinda1, Roviello Giovanni N.3ORCID
Affiliation:
1. Faculty of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Georgian State Teaching University of Physical Education and Sport, 49 Chavchavadze Avenue, 0162 Tbilisi, Georgia 2. Compete Physiotherapy Ltd., Unit 1, Bridge Mill, Cowan Bridge, Carnforth LA6 2HS, UK 3. Institute of Biostructures and Bioimaging, Italian National Council for Research (IBB-CNR), Area di Ricerca Site and Headquarters, Via Pietro Castellino 111, 80131 Naples, Italy
Abstract
Asymmetry plays a major role in biology at all scales. This can be seen in the helix of DNA, the fact that the human heart is on the left side, or that most people use their right hand. A single protein such as Myosin 1D can induce helical motion in another molecule. This causes cells, organs, and even entire bodies to twist in a domino effect, causing left–right behaviour. More generally, athlete movements are often asymmetric and, during the physical rehabilitation after injury, the asymmetry is visually discernible. Herein, we review the molecular basis of the movement asymmetries and report on the available knowledge on the few therapeutics investigated so far such as meloxicam. From a more rehabilitative perspective, it is very important to use effective methods to control the process of resolving the injury-related movement asymmetry through the complex use of specialised exercises, measurements, and gait analysis, which can all provide useful information on the effectiveness of the rehabilitation plans. If for each athlete, the normal range of asymmetry is known, the asymmetry can be individually treated and the evolution can be monitored over time. Appropriate measures should be taken if the movement asymmetry is outside this range. In addition, genetic, physiological, and psychological factors relevant to athlete health should be considered in the process of assessing and improving exercise asymmetry, which we also discuss in this review. The main proposal of this work is that the movement asymmetries in athletes should be individually treated, while taking into account the athlete’s genetics, physical condition, and previous injuries.
Subject
Paleontology,Space and Planetary Science,General Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology,Ecology, Evolution, Behavior and Systematics
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