Bilateral Asymmetry

A measurable difference between the left and right sides of the body in range of motion, strength, posture, or movement pattern. Some bilateral asymmetry is normal and expected -- the human body is inherently asymmetric (liver on the right, heart on the left, dominant vs. non-dominant limb). Clinically significant asymmetry exceeds expected norms and creates compensatory load.

Bilateral asymmetry is what makes biomechanical assessment informative. A squat assessment that reports 'adequate depth' misses the fact that the client is shifting 60% of their weight to the right side. Measuring both sides independently reveals patterns that bilateral testing obscures. Significant asymmetry in hip rotation, shoulder rotation, or ankle dorsiflexion predicts compensatory patterns and injury risk. The goal of correction is not perfect symmetry but functional symmetry within normal variance.