Help me fix my weak left side

obscuremusicreference

I have past injuries (sciatic nerve + shoulder nerve) on my left side and am trying to make my left side stronger. I have been doing this by doing 1.5-2X the reps with dumbbells (vs. my right side) and I've added extra strength training/yoga poses this week.

I am looking for any advice, exercises, etc from people who have experienced similar weaknesses.

Cherimoose

As far as exercises, follow a professionally-designed program (NROL, Stronglifts, personal trainer, physical therapist, etc). Avoid piecing together your own routine.

I would probably do around 20-25% extra reps. If you can do 1.5-2x the reps, the weight might be too light.

And make a conscious effort to use your left side more in daily activities. Open doors with your left hand, climb stairs leading with your left leg, etc. It teaches the brain to stop favoring the right side.

obscuremusicreference

Thank you! And I should clarify that I have been doing the extra reps with 5 and 10 pound weights--I am afraid of reaggravating my shoulder injury with anything heavier. I have been doing the sciatic nerve exercises given to me by a physical therapist.

I will definitely start making sure I use my left side more--that's such a simple thing that never occurred to me.