Ulta Lab Tests

Muscle Recovery & Performance Optimization Lab Panel

Blood
Blood Draw, Phlebotomist

The following is a list of what is included in the item above. Click the test(s) below to view what biomarkers are measured along with an explanation of what the biomarker is measuring.

Also known as: Chem 12, Chemistry Panel, Chemistry Screen, CMP, Complete Metabolic Panel, Comprehensive Metabolic Panel CMP, SMA 12, SMA 20

Albumin

Albumin is a protein made by the liver. A serum albumin test measures the amount of this protein in the clear liquid portion of the blood.

Albumin/Globulin Ratio

The ratio of albumin to globulin (A/G ratio) is calculated from measured albumin and calculated globulin (total protein - albumin). Normally, there is a little more albumin than globulins, giving a normal A/G ratio of slightly over 1. Because disease states affect the relative amounts of albumin and globulin, the A/G ratio may provide a clue as to the cause of the change in protein levels. A low A/G ratio may reflect overproduction of globulins, such as seen in multiple myeloma or autoimmune diseases, or underproduction of albumin, such as may occur with cirrhosis, or selective loss of albumin from the circulation, as may occur with kidney disease (nephrotic syndrome). A high A/G ratio suggests underproduction of immunoglobulins as may be seen in some genetic deficiencies and in some leukemias. More specific tests, such as liver enzyme tests and serum protein electrophoresis, must be performed to make an accurate diagnosis. With a low total protein that is due to plasma expansion (dilution of the blood), the A/G ratio will typically be normal because both albumin and globulin will be diluted to the same extent.

Alkaline Phosphatase

Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) is a protein found in all body tissues. Tissues with higher amounts of ALP include the liver, bile ducts, and bone.

Alt

Alanine transaminase (ALT) is an enzyme found in the highest amounts in the liver. Injury to the liver results in release of the substance into the blood.

AST

AST (aspartate aminotransferase) is an enzyme found in high amounts in liver, heart, and muscle cells. It is also found in lesser amounts in other tissues.

Bilirubin, Total

Bilirubin is a yellowish pigment found in bile, a fluid made by the liver. A small amount of older red blood cells are replaced by new blood cells every day. Bilirubin is left after these older blood cells are removed. The liver helps break down bilirubin so that it can be removed from the body in the stool.

Bun/Creatinine Ratio

A ratio between a person’s BUN and blood creatinine to help determine what is causing these concentrations to be higher than normal. The ratio of BUN to creatinine is usually between 10:1 and 20:1. An increased ratio may be due to a condition that causes a decrease in the flow of blood to the kidneys, such as congestive heart failure or dehydration. It may also be seen with increased protein, from gastrointestinal bleeding, or increased protein in the diet. The ratio may be decreased with liver disease (due to decrease in the formation of urea) and malnutrition.

Calcium

You have more calcium in your body than any other mineral. Calcium has many important jobs. The body stores more than 99 percent of its calcium in the bones and teeth to help make and keep them strong. The rest is throughout the body in blood, muscle and the fluid between cells. Your body needs calcium to help muscles and blood vessels contract and expand, to secrete hormones and enzymes and to send messages through the nervous system.

Carbon Dioxide

CO2 is carbon dioxide. Measures the amount of carbon dioxide in the liquid part of your blood, called the serum. In the body, most of the CO2 is in the form of a substance called bicarbonate (HCO3-). Therefore, the CO2 blood test is really a measure of your blood bicarbonate level.

Chloride

Chloride is a type of electrolyte. It works with other electrolytes such as potassium, sodium, and carbon dioxide (CO2). These substances help keep the proper balance of body fluids and maintain the body's acid-base balance. This is a measure of the amount of chloride in the fluid portion (serum) of the blood.

Creatinine

The creatinine blood test measures the level of creatinine in the blood. This test is done to see how well your kidneys work.

Egfr African American

Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is a test used to check how well the kidneys are working. Specifically, it estimates how much blood passes through the glomeruli each minute. Glomeruli are the tiny filters in the kidneys that filter waste from the blood.

Egfr Non-Afr. American

Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is a test used to check how well the kidneys are working. Specifically, it estimates how much blood passes through the glomeruli each minute. Glomeruli are the tiny filters in the kidneys that filter waste from the blood.

GFR-AFRICAN AMERICAN

GFR-NON AFRICAN AMERICAN

Globulin

Globulins is the collective term for most blood proteins other than albumin. Identifying the types of globulins can help diagnose certain disorders. Globulins are roughly divided into three groups: alpha, beta, and gamma globulins. Gamma globulines include various types of antibodies such as immunoglobulins (Ig) M, G, and A.

Glucose

A blood glucose test measures the amount of a sugar called glucose in a sample of your blood. Glucose is a major source of energy for most cells of the body, including those in the brain. The hormones insulin and glucagon help control blood glucose levels.

Potassium

Potassium is a mineral that the body needs to work normally. It helps nerves and muscles communicate. It also helps move nutrients into cells and waste products out of cells. A diet rich in potassium helps to offset some of sodium's harmful effects on blood pressure.

Protein, Total

The total protein is the total amount of two classes of proteins, albumin and globulin that are found in the fluid portion of your blood. Proteins are important parts of all cells and tissues. Your albumin helps prevent fluid from leaking out of blood vessels and your globulins are an important part of your immune system.

Sodium

Sodium is a substance that the body needs to work properly it is vital to normal body processes, including nerve and muscle function

Urea Nitrogen (Bun)

BUN stands for blood urea nitrogen. Urea nitrogen is what forms when protein breaks down. BUN measures the amount of urea nitrogen in the blood.

Also known as: CK (Total), CPK, CPK (Total), Creatine Kinase CK Total, Creatine Phosphokinase (CPK), Total CK

Creatine Kinase, Total

Glucose

A blood glucose test measures the amount of a sugar called glucose in a sample of your blood. Glucose is a major source of energy for most cells of the body, including those in the brain. The hormones insulin and glucagon help control blood glucose levels.

Also known as: A1c, Glycated Hemoglobin, Glycohemoglobin, Glycosylated Hemoglobin, HA1c, HbA1c, Hemoglobin A1c, Hemoglobin A1c HgbA1C, Hgb A1c

Hemoglobin A1c

The A1c test evaluates the average amount of glucose in the blood over the last 2 to 3 months. It does this by measuring the concentration of glycated (also often called glycosylated) hemoglobin A1c. Hemoglobin is an oxygen-transporting protein found inside red blood cells (RBCs). There are several types of normal hemoglobin, but the predominant form – about 95-98% – is hemoglobin A. As glucose circulates in the blood, some of it spontaneously binds to hemoglobin A. The hemoglobin molecules with attached glucose are called glycated hemoglobin. The higher the concentration of glucose in the blood, the more glycated hemoglobin is formed. Once the glucose binds to the hemoglobin, it remains there for the life of the red blood cell – normally about 120 days. The predominant form of glycated hemoglobin is referred to as HbA1c or A1c. A1c is produced on a daily basis and slowly cleared from the blood as older RBCs die and younger RBCs (with non-glycated hemoglobin) take their place. This test is used to monitor treatment in someone who has been diagnosed with diabetes. It helps to evaluate how well their glucose levels have been controlled by treatment over time. This test may be used to screen for and diagnose diabetes or risk of developing diabetes. In 2010, clinical practice guidelines from the American Diabetes Association (ADA) stated that A1c may be added to fasting plasma glucose (FPG) and oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) as an option for diabetes screening and diagnosis. For monitoring purposes, an A1c of less than 7% indicates good glucose control and a lower risk of diabetic complications for the majority of diabetics. However, in 2012, the ADA and the European Association for the Study of Diabetes (EASD) issued a position statement recommending that the management of glucose control in type 2 diabetes be more "patient-centered." Data from recent studies have shown that low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) can cause complications and that people with risk of severe hypoglycemia, underlying health conditions, complications, and a limited life expectancy do not necessarily benefit from having a stringent goal of less than 7% for their A1c. The statement recommends that people work closely with their doctor to select a goal that reflects each person's individual health status and that balances risks and benefits.

Also known as: C-Reactive Protein, Cardio CRP, Cardio hs-CRP, CRP, High Sensitivity CRP, High-sensitivity C-reactive Protein, High-sensitivity CRP, Highly Sensitive CRP, hsCRP, Ultra-sensitive CRP

Hs Crp

A high-sensitivity CRP (hs-CRP) test may be used by itself, in combination with other cardiac risk markers, or in combination with a lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2 (Lp-PLA2) test that evaluates vascular inflammation. The hs-CRP test accurately detects low concentrations of C-reactive protein to help predict a healthy person's risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). High-sensitivity CRP is promoted by some as a test for determining a person's risk level for CVD, heart attacks, and strokes. The current thinking is that hs-CRP can play a role in the evaluation process before a person develops one of these health problems.

Also known as: Lactate Dehydrogenase LD, LDH

Ld

LDH isoenzymes is a test to check how much of the different types of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) are in the blood. Measurement of LDH isoenzymes helps determine the location of any tissue damage. LDH is found in many body tissues such as the heart, liver, kidney, skeletal muscle, brain, blood cells, and lungs. LDH exists in 5 forms, which differ slightly in structure. LDH-1 is found primarily in heart muscle and red blood cells. LDH-2 is concentrated in white blood cells. LDH-3 is highest in the lung. LDH-4 is highest in the kidney, placenta, and pancreas. LDH-5 is highest in the liver and skeletal muscle.

Magnesium

ARACHIDONIC ACID

ARACHIDONIC ACID/EPA

DHA

DPA

EPA

EPA+DPA+DHA

LINOLEIC ACID

OMEGA-3 TOTAL

OMEGA-6 TOTAL

OMEGA-6/OMEGA-3 RATIO

Also known as: Testosterone Free Dialysis and Total LCMSMS

Free Testosterone

In many cases, measurement of total testosterone provides the doctor with adequate information. However, in certain cases, for example when the level of SHBG is abnormal, a test for free or bioavailable testosterone may be performed as it may more accurately reflect the presence of a medical condition.

TESTOSTERONE, TOTAL,

A testosterone test measures the amount of the male hormone, testosterone, in the blood. Both men and women produce this hormone. In males, the testicles produce most of the testosterone in the body. Levels are most often checked to evaluate signs of low testosterone: In boys -- early or late puberty and in men -- impotence, low level of sexual interest, infertility, thinning of the bones In females, the ovaries produce most of the testosterone and levels are most often checked to evaluate signs of higher testosterone levels, such as: decreased breast size, excess hair growth, increased size of the clitoris. irregular or absent menstrual periods and male-pattern baldness or hair thinning.

Also known as: Cobalamin, Folic Acid, Vitamin B 12, Vitamin B 12 and Folic Acid, Vitamin B12 Cobalamin and Folate Panel Serum, Vitamin B12/Folic Acid

Folate, Serum

Folate is part of the B complex of vitamins and is measures the levels of folate in the liquid portion of the blood, the serum or plasma, to detect deficiencies. Folate is necessary for normal RBC formation, tissue and cellular repair, and DNA synthesis.. A deficiency inr folate can lead to macrocytic anemia. Megaloblastic anemia, a type of macrocytic anemia, is characterized by the production of fewer but larger RBCs called macrocytes, in addition to some cellular changes in the bone marrow.

Vitamin B12

Vitamin B12 is part of the B complex of vitamins and measurea the levels of vitamin B12 in the liquid portion of the blood, the serum or plasma, to detect deficiencies. Cobalamine, or vitamin B12, is found in animal products such as red meat, fish, poultry, milk, yogurt, and eggs and is not produced in the human body. In recent years, fortified cereals, breads, and other grain products have also become important dietary sources of B12. Vitamin B12 is necessary for normal RBC formation, tissue and cellular repair, and DNA synthesis. B12 is important for nerve health. A deficiency in B12 can lead to macrocytic anemia. Megaloblastic anemia, a type of macrocytic anemia, is characterized by the production of fewer but larger RBCs called macrocytes, in addition to some cellular changes in the bone marrow. B12 deficiency can lead to varying degrees of neuropathy, nerve damage that can cause tingling and numbness in the affected person's hands and feet.

Also known as: ,25-Hydroxyvitamin D2, 25-Hydroxycholecalciferol (25OHD3), 25-OH-D2,D3 Vitamin, D2 Vitamin,25-Hydroxyvitamin D3,25-OH-D3, QuestAssureD 25Hydroxyvitamin D D2 D3 LCMSMS, Vitamin D, Vitamin D, 25-Hydroxy, Vitamin D2, 25-hydroxy,25-Hydroxyergocalciferol (25OHD2),Vitamin D3, 25-hydroxy

Vitamin D, 25-Oh, Total

Vitamin D comes from two sources: endogenous, which is produced in the skin on exposure to sunlight, and exogenous, which is ingested in foods and supplements. The chemical structures of the types of vitamin D are slightly different, and they are named vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol, which comes from plants) and vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol, which comes from animals). The D2 form is found in fortified foods and in most vitamin preparations and supplements. Vitamin D3 is the form produced in the body and is also used in some supplements. Vitamin D2 and D3 are equally effective when they are converted by the liver and the kidney into the active form, 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D.
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The Muscle Recovery & Performance Optimization Lab Panel panel contains 11 tests with 42 biomarkers .

Overview of the Muscle Recovery & Performance Optimization Lab Panel

The Muscle Recovery & Performance Optimization Lab Panel is a comprehensive diagnostic tool designed for athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and individuals focused on optimizing physical performance, recovery, and overall health. This panel evaluates essential biomarkers related to muscle health, energy metabolism, inflammation, hormonal balance, and nutritional status. By analyzing these markers, healthcare professionals can identify underlying issues that may impair recovery, cause fatigue, or limit strength and endurance.

Muscle recovery is influenced by a combination of factors including electrolyte balance, energy production, hormonal function, and nutrient availability. Inadequate levels of key nutrients or unchecked systemic inflammation can delay recovery, increase injury risk, and compromise performance. This panel offers a deep look into these physiological aspects, helping athletes and patients achieve peak performance while preventing overtraining-related complications.

When and Why the Muscle Recovery & Performance Optimization Lab Panel May Be Ordered

The Muscle Recovery & Performance Optimization Lab Panel is often ordered for individuals who experience delayed muscle recovery, persistent fatigue, frequent injuries, or performance plateaus despite consistent training. It is particularly valuable for competitive athletes, bodybuilders, endurance trainers, and individuals engaged in high-intensity exercise.

Healthcare providers may recommend this panel if:

  • You have muscle pain, cramps, or weakness beyond normal post-exercise soreness.

  • You experience frequent injuries or prolonged healing after workouts.

  • There is concern for overtraining syndrome or chronic inflammation.

  • You want to optimize hormone and nutrient levels to support strength and endurance.

  • You have conditions like diabetes, thyroid dysfunction, or metabolic disorders that can impair recovery.

By identifying imbalances in muscle enzymes, inflammatory markers, electrolytes, glucose metabolism, and essential nutrients, this panel enables a proactive approach to improving recovery and athletic performance.

What the Muscle Recovery & Performance Optimization Lab Panel Checks For

This panel covers a range of tests that collectively evaluate muscle tissue integrity, metabolic efficiency, inflammation control, hormonal health, and nutrient sufficiency. Below is an in-depth explanation of each test and its role in performance optimization:

Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP)

The CMP measures electrolytes, kidney and liver function, and protein levels. These parameters are critical for hydration status, energy metabolism, and detoxification—all essential for optimal recovery. Electrolyte imbalances can lead to muscle cramps and fatigue, while liver and kidney health influence protein metabolism and waste removal during muscle repair.

Creatine Kinase (CK), Total

CK is an enzyme released into the bloodstream when muscle fibers are damaged. Elevated CK levels may indicate muscle overuse, intense exercise, or rhabdomyolysis in severe cases. Monitoring CK helps determine whether muscle breakdown is within expected limits or indicative of overtraining or injury.

Glucose

Glucose provides a snapshot of blood sugar control, which is essential for energy supply during exercise. Poor glucose regulation can lead to fatigue, impaired muscle recovery, and increased inflammation. For athletes, maintaining stable glucose levels ensures optimal performance and glycogen replenishment.

Hemoglobin A1c (HgbA1C)

Hemoglobin A1c reflects average blood sugar levels over the previous two to three months. This marker is crucial for identifying prediabetes or diabetes, which can compromise energy metabolism, impair muscle repair, and increase inflammation—all detrimental to recovery and performance.

hs-CRP (High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein)

hs-CRP is a sensitive indicator of systemic inflammation. While some inflammation is normal after intense exercise, chronically elevated hs-CRP suggests prolonged recovery times and increased risk of injury. Tracking inflammation helps guide recovery strategies and lifestyle interventions.

Lactate Dehydrogenase (LD)

LD is an enzyme involved in energy production and is released during tissue breakdown. Elevated LD levels can indicate muscle damage or metabolic stress. Monitoring LD, alongside CK, provides a more complete picture of muscle recovery and cellular integrity.

Magnesium

Magnesium is an essential mineral that supports muscle relaxation, nerve function, and energy production. Deficiency can lead to cramps, fatigue, and decreased performance. Optimal magnesium levels are critical for both recovery and cardiovascular health during high-intensity exercise.

OmegaCheck

The OmegaCheck test evaluates the ratio of omega-3 to omega-6 fatty acids, which influence inflammation and cardiovascular health. A favorable omega balance reduces exercise-induced inflammation, promotes faster recovery, and supports joint health. Imbalanced ratios, often seen in modern diets, can increase inflammation and slow recovery times.

Testosterone, Free (Dialysis) and Total MS

Testosterone is a key anabolic hormone responsible for muscle growth, strength, and recovery. Low testosterone levels can hinder protein synthesis and muscle repair, while optimal levels enhance performance and resilience. Measuring both free and total testosterone provides a complete assessment of hormone status.

Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin) and Folate Panel, Serum

B12 and folate are critical for red blood cell production, nerve function, and energy metabolism. Deficiency in these vitamins can cause fatigue, weakness, and impaired recovery. Athletes with inadequate B12 or folate may struggle with endurance and muscle repair after training.

Vitamin D, 25-Hydroxy, Total, Immunoassay

Vitamin D supports bone health, muscle function, and immune regulation. Low vitamin D levels can impair strength, delay recovery, and increase injury risk. Adequate vitamin D also contributes to reducing inflammation, making it essential for athletes and active individuals.

How Healthcare Professionals Use the Muscle Recovery & Performance Optimization Lab Panel Results

The results of the Muscle Recovery & Performance Optimization Lab Panel guide healthcare providers in creating personalized strategies to enhance athletic performance and recovery. For example:

  • Elevated CK or LD may lead to recommendations for modified training intensity or extended rest periods to prevent muscle injury.

  • High hs-CRP signals the need for anti-inflammatory dietary changes, omega-3 supplementation, or recovery-focused protocols.

  • Low testosterone may prompt hormonal evaluation and targeted therapies to restore anabolic balance.

  • Magnesium deficiency can be corrected through diet or supplementation to reduce cramps and improve neuromuscular function.

  • Imbalanced omega fatty acids can be addressed by increasing omega-3 intake for better recovery and cardiovascular health.

  • Low vitamin D, B12, or folate deficiencies can be corrected to support energy production and tissue repair.

  • Abnormal glucose or A1c results require dietary and metabolic interventions to prevent fatigue and optimize energy utilization.

By integrating these results, clinicians can tailor recovery programs, nutritional plans, and training recommendations to maximize performance while minimizing injury risk.

Musculoskeletal and Recovery-Related Conditions

Condition Explanation
Overtraining Syndrome Persistent fatigue, performance decline, and mood disturbances caused by chronic excessive training without adequate rest.
Rhabdomyolysis Severe muscle breakdown releasing CK and LD into the bloodstream; often seen in extreme exertion or trauma.
Delayed-Onset Muscle Soreness (DOMS) Common post-exercise soreness that, if excessive or prolonged, may signal underlying imbalances.
Chronic Muscle Fatigue or Weakness Especially if muscle enzymes like CK and LD are elevated, or if nutrient deficiencies exist.
Exercise-Induced Muscle Cramping May be related to electrolyte or magnesium imbalances.

 

Energy Metabolism and Fatigue Disorders

Condition Explanation
Mitochondrial Dysfunction or Metabolic Myopathies Disorders that impair cellular energy production and can be suggested by persistent muscle fatigue and elevated LD or CK.
Hypoglycemia / Glucose Dysregulation Low or unstable blood glucose during exercise can impair performance and recovery.
Prediabetes / Type 2 Diabetes Elevated Hemoglobin A1c and impaired glucose utilization reduce recovery and muscle performance.

 

Hormonal and Endocrine Disorders

Condition Explanation
Low Testosterone (Hypogonadism) Reduces muscle mass, strength, and recovery capacity; affects mood and energy.
Thyroid Dysfunction (Hypothyroidism/Hyperthyroidism) Though not directly measured, thyroid issues can impact energy, muscle function, and performance.
Adrenal Fatigue / HPA Axis Dysfunction While not a mainstream medical diagnosis, some clinicians look for systemic fatigue and stress-related inflammation patterns.

 

 Inflammatory and Immune Conditions

Condition Explanation
Systemic Inflammation / Chronic Low-Grade Inflammation Elevated hs-CRP levels may point to inflammatory burdens that reduce muscle recovery.
Autoimmune Myopathies or Inflammatory Myositis Persistent muscle weakness with elevated CK, LD, and CRP could indicate an autoimmune process.

 

Nutritional Deficiencies

Condition Explanation
Magnesium Deficiency Leads to muscle cramps, fatigue, and poor neuromuscular performance.
Vitamin D Deficiency Affects muscle function, immune health, and inflammation resolution.
Vitamin B12 or Folate Deficiency Impairs red blood cell production and oxygen transport, reducing endurance and recovery.
Omega-3 Deficiency / Omega-6 Imbalance Promotes a pro-inflammatory state, impairs recovery, and increases joint/muscle pain.

 

Athletic and Performance Optimization

Use Case Explanation
Plateaued Performance in Training Identifies hidden physiological limitations.
High-Performance Athletes & Bodybuilders Tracks anabolic/catabolic balance, muscle integrity, and inflammation.
Personalized Nutrition and Supplementation Informs diet adjustments based on nutrient biomarkers.
Post-Injury Recovery Monitoring Ensures biomarkers return to baseline during rehab.

Conclusion

The Muscle Recovery & Performance Optimization Lab Panel is a powerful tool for athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and individuals seeking peak performance. By assessing markers related to muscle health, inflammation, hormone balance, and nutrient sufficiency, this panel helps uncover hidden barriers to recovery and strength. Addressing these factors ensures faster recovery, reduced injury risk, and improved overall athletic performance. Whether your goal is endurance, strength, or enhanced recovery, this lab panel provides the insights needed to optimize your body’s potential.

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