Additionally, levator scapulae acts with the trapezius, latissimus dorsi, rhomboids, pectoralis major and pectoralis minor muscles to inferiorly. As its name suggests, the main function of this muscle is to elevate the scapula. Additionally, levator scapulae acts with the trapezius, latissimus dorsi, rhomboids, pectoralis major and pectoralis minor muscles to inferiorly rotate the glenoid cavity, stabilize the spine, and extend and laterally flex the neck. The levator scapulae muscle extends from the transverse processes of vertebrae C1-C4 to the medial border of scapula. The levator scapulae muscle extends from the transverse processes of vertebrae C1-C4 to the medial border of scapula.Īs its name suggests, the main function of this muscle is to elevate the scapula. Functionally, however, it is considered to be a muscle of scapular motion along with the rhomboids, serratus anterior, serratus posterior superior and inferior muscles. Take your other hand over your head and place it on the back of your head. Now I just stretch my shoulder a bunch, and add more back work and all. To perform a levator scapula stretch: On the side you want to stretch, bring your arm up and place your hand on the back of your shoulder blade so your elbow is pointing upward towards the ceiling. this muscle attaches from the upper cervical vertebrae and runs downward to attach to the top of the scapula (shoulder blade). It ended up being general shoulder tightness. the levator scapulae is a long thin muscle that is found on either side of the neck and deep into the trapezius muscle group. Elevate your arms and rest your elbows to the side. then went to physical therapy for 6 weeks. Instead of sitting slouched to text or use your phone, bend your arms at a 90-degree angle. Levator scapulae is a long and slender muscle that anatomically belongs to the superficial layer of extrinsic muscles of the back. but no matter what I do any sort of overhead movement that causes the scapulae to rotate this way re-aggravates the issue over.

Levator scapulae muscle (Musculus levator scapulae) Levator Scapulae Stretch (Modified) Repeat: 2-3 Times: Hold: 30 Seconds: Complete: 1 Set: Perform: 2 Times per day: Grasp your arm of the affected side and gently pull it across the front of your body. A common stretch of the levator scapulae is accomplished by hanging one arm to the side while the other arm gently pulls the head down and toward the shoulder.

Levator scapulae stretch