Levator scapulae is a neck muscle which runs from the top of our shoulder blade up into the base of the skull. It elevates the shoulder blade as the name suggests. This Levator Scapulae Stretch can be used daily to maintain flexibility in the neck.
Follow the above video correctly as it is important to be in the right position to get an affective stretch through the muscle. If you are slumped forward it can prevent you from getting a good stretch. As you rotate your head be aware of the sensation running from the back of the head to the top of the shoulder blade to make sure you are in the correct position.
Levator Scap is a relatively thin muscle located just below the upper part of the traps. It tilts and rotates the head sideways. When the left and right levator scaps work at the same time, it lifts the shoulders and tilts our head backwards.
Why Does It Get Tight? | Levator Scapulae Stretch
Tension in levator scapulae is mainly caused by poor posture, many people have the shoulders constantly raised when on computers or devices, or when using a phone. It has also been shown to raise the shoulders during times of stress which may be part of our flight or fight response.
Symptoms | Levator Scapulae Stretch
• Loss if streghth
• Restriction or pain when taking chin to chest