Why Does the Muscle Near My Armpit Hurt after Push-Ups Instead of My Arms or Chest?
After performing push-ups, it’s common for individuals to experience soreness in unexpected areas such as the muscles near the armpits rather than the arms or chest. This phenomenon can be a result of several factors related to muscle engagement and body mechanics.
Understanding Push-Up Mechanics
During a push-up, various muscles are engaged, including the pectoralis major (chest), triceps (back of the upper arms), and deltoids (shoulders). However, the specific distribution of muscle engagement can vary based on individual differences and proper form.
Engagement of Chest and Triceps
Typically, the primary muscles targeted during a push-up are the chest and triceps. The chest muscles, including the pectoralis major, are responsible for the horizontal adduction of the arms, while the triceps assist in extending the elbows. When executed correctly, these muscles bear the bulk of the workload.
Alignment and Muscle Activation
Proper alignment during a push-up ensures optimal engagement of the chest and triceps. Issues such as flared elbows or inadequate shoulder stability can result in diminished activation of these muscles, potentially redirecting strain to other areas, such as the muscles near the armpit.
Involvement of Serratus Anterior
The soreness near the armpit after push-ups may be attributed to the involvement of the serratus anterior muscle. This muscle, located along the sides of the chest and extending to the shoulder blades, plays a significant role in stabilizing the scapulae during movements like push-ups. When the serratus anterior is not accustomed to intense activity, it can become sore due to the increased demand placed on it during push-ups.
Post-Workout Recovery and Prevention
To alleviate soreness near the armpit and ensure balanced muscle engagement during push-ups, it’s crucial to prioritize proper form, shoulder stability, and overall shoulder girdle strength. Additionally, incorporating targeted exercises to strengthen the serratus anterior can help reduce discomfort and optimize push-up performance.
FAQ
Why do I feel soreness near my armpit after doing push-ups? Shouldn’t I feel it in my chest or arms?
The sensation of soreness near the armpit after push-ups can be attributed to the engagement of the serratus anterior muscle, which stabilizes the scapulae during the exercise. Additionally, improper form or shoulder instability can lead to redirected strain to this area.
