Poland Syndrome Bodybuilding
"Life doesn't require that
we be the best, only that we try our best"
"H.Jackson Brown"
WHAT IS POLAND SYNDROME?
Most of you guys already know, but for those who dont, read below.
(BELOW CONTEXT FROM WIKIPEDIA)
Poland syndrome is a rare birth defect characterized by underdevelopment or absence of the chest muscle on one side of the body, and usually also webbing of the fingers of the hand on the same side. In most affected individuals, the missing part is the large section of the muscle that normally attaches to the upper arm on one side and the breastbone on the other. Other abnormalities may occur on the affected side of the torso. In some cases, additional muscles in the chest wall, side, and shoulder are missing or underdeveloped. There may also be rib cage abnormalities, such as shortened ribs, and the ribs may be noticeable due to less fat under the skin. Breast and nipple abnormalities may also occur. In most cases, the abnormalities in the chest area do not cause health problems or affect movement. Poland syndrome most often affects the right side of the body, and occurs more often in males than in females.
The cause of Poland syndrome is unknown. However, an interruption of the embryonic blood supply to the arteries that lie under the collarbone (subclavian arteries) at about the 46th day of embryonic development is the prevailing theory.The subclavian arteries normally supply blood to embryonic tissues that give rise to the chest wall and hand. Variations in the site and extent of the disruption may explain the range of signs and symptoms that occur in Poland syndrome. Abnormality of an embryonic structure called the apical ectodermal ridge, which helps direct early limb
development, may also be involved in this disorder.Rare cases of Poland syndrome are thought to be caused by a genetic change that can be passed down in families, but no related genes have been identified
My Poland Syndrome
Since I was diagnosed PS, I have connected with many others (through the web social media etc) but I am yet to see 2 people with the exact same normalities. Every case of PS seems to be unique and individual to that person. Some are affected more than others.
MY Poland Syndrome affects the entire left side of my body. Everything is smaller in comparison to the right. I’m missing most of my left pec (I still have some of the upper pectoral). I’m also missing part of my bicep and the upper forearm is nonexistent. My left arm is 2 inches shorter than the right and my hand is noticeably smaller. Pretty much all the muscles are smaller on the left. Even my Quads seems to be effected.
My goal - has always been to acquire a balanced physique and increase the longevity of my muscles, though I have come a LONG LONG way since starting my fitness journey. Some parts of my physique can’t be changed, but that’s ok, I’m an individual, this is who I am. IM #BLESSED :-)