rotator asymmetry?

[alluk]

Hi. I'm 39yo and have taken new interest on my posture and symmetry. I have a hyperactive right trapezius which I've been correcting with exercise and stretches. What puzzles me is that my left shoulder looks normal but my left arm stays away from my trunk. I sit up with my elbows touching my sides and hands resting beside my legs thumbs up, but as soon as I relax my left elbow pulls away from my body as the hand rotates to face palm down, while my right arm is motiontless. What could be the cause?
So many thanks...

[alluk]

Thank you. It is probably a life time of repeated asymetrical posture at the desk and I'll keep working on correcting it.

[S. Kaul, MD]

Hi there!

The two sides are never perfectly symmetrical and neutral stance of either limb would tend to vary slightly. Also depending on the muscle stretch and fatigue some muscles may tend to stay contracted or relaxed resulting in the variation. This is perfectly normal and should not be anything to worry about.
Hope this is helpful.

Take care!