Why Does My Left Cheek and Lip Twitch During Dumbbell Shoulder Workouts?

During dumbbell training, when exerting force with the right shoulder, the left upper lip and left cheek move along with it?

Hello Doctor, due to the pandemic, I started working out at home and recently began using dumbbells.
I've noticed that during some shoulder exercises, such as lateral raises, when I lift the dumbbell with my right shoulder, my left cheek and the left side of my upper lip twitch slightly.
Each time I lift, my left cheek and upper lip twitch.
Additionally, during my warm-up when I rotate my shoulders forward and backward, if I make large and deep movements, the same twitching occurs in my left cheek and upper lip, but this does not happen on the right side.
This has never happened before.
I would like to ask if this situation is normal.
I have tried searching online for information, but I couldn't find anything.
Once the pandemic eases, I plan to go to the gym, but this issue makes me hesitant.
Could you please provide some insights and advice? Thank you.

Tina, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/04/10

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology

Dear Ms.
Tina,
You mentioned that "when lifting a dumbbell with my right shoulder, my left cheek and left upper lip twitch slightly, and with each lift, the left cheek and left upper lip twitch again." This symptom seems to indicate a chain reaction of activation in the motor cortex, resulting in abnormal connections between the neural functions controlling the right spinal cord and the facial nucleus on the left side.
Clinically, movement-evoked potentials can assist in diagnosis.
Additionally, some myofascial adhesions may present similar symptoms.
I recommend consulting with a rehabilitation specialist or a neurologist for examination and treatment suggestions.
A neurologist specializing in peripheral nerves may have more experience with electromyography diagnostics.
Thank you for your inquiry, and feel free to discuss further.
Wishing you good health, peace, and joy.
Dr.
Jiang Junyi, Neurology, Taoyuan Medical Center
However, due to the recent COVID-19 pandemic, I suggest waiting until the situation stabilizes before going to the hospital for examinations.
Please ensure to implement self-protection measures and maintain cleanliness and disinfection before and after your visit.

Reply Date: 2022/04/10

More Info

The twitching of your left cheek and lip during dumbbell shoulder workouts can be attributed to several factors, and while it may seem concerning, it is often not a sign of a serious medical condition. Here are some potential explanations for this phenomenon:
1. Muscle Fatigue and Overexertion: When you engage in physical activities, especially those that involve lifting weights, your muscles can become fatigued. This fatigue can lead to involuntary muscle contractions or spasms, which may manifest as twitching in the facial muscles. The left side of your face twitching while you are exerting effort on the right side could be a result of muscle fatigue or overexertion in the surrounding areas.

2. Nerve Impingement or Irritation: The muscles and nerves in your neck and shoulders are interconnected. If you are performing shoulder exercises that involve significant movement or strain, it is possible that a nerve in your neck or upper back is being compressed or irritated. This irritation could lead to twitching in the facial muscles on the opposite side.

3. Electrolyte Imbalance: During workouts, especially if you are sweating a lot, you may lose essential electrolytes such as potassium, magnesium, and calcium. An imbalance in these electrolytes can lead to muscle cramps and spasms, which might also affect facial muscles.

4. Stress and Anxiety: Physical exertion can sometimes trigger stress responses in the body. If you are feeling anxious about your workouts or the current pandemic situation, this stress can manifest physically, leading to muscle twitching.

5. Neurological Factors: While less common, certain neurological conditions can cause facial twitching. However, if this is the only symptom you are experiencing and it occurs only during specific activities, it is less likely to be a neurological issue.

Recommendations:
1. Rest and Recovery: Ensure you are allowing adequate recovery time between workouts. If you notice twitching, consider reducing the intensity or volume of your shoulder workouts.

2. Hydration and Nutrition: Make sure you are well-hydrated and consuming a balanced diet rich in electrolytes. Foods like bananas (potassium), nuts (magnesium), and dairy products (calcium) can help maintain electrolyte balance.

3. Warm-Up and Stretching: Incorporate a thorough warm-up and stretching routine before your workouts. This can help prepare your muscles and nerves for the activity and may reduce the likelihood of twitching.

4. Consult a Professional: If the twitching persists or worsens, it would be wise to consult a healthcare professional. A physical therapist or a physician can assess your situation more thoroughly and provide personalized recommendations.

5. Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: If stress is a contributing factor, consider incorporating mindfulness practices such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga into your routine to help manage anxiety.

In conclusion, while the twitching of your left cheek and lip during shoulder workouts may be concerning, it is often a benign issue related to muscle fatigue, nerve irritation, or stress. By taking steps to ensure proper hydration, nutrition, and recovery, you can likely mitigate this symptom. However, if it continues or causes you significant concern, seeking professional medical advice is always a prudent course of action.

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