The “Weakly” Muscle – The Levator Scapulae

ORIGIN: Lateral most structure (Transverse Process) of the top 4 vertebrae in the neck. (C1-C4) INSERTION: Upper, Inner border of your wing bone. (Superior angle to the medial border of the scapula) ACTION: Elevates the scapula medially and inclines the head ipsilaterally. If you turn your head slightly to one side and then try and …

ORIGIN:

Lateral most structure (Transverse Process) of the top 4 vertebrae in the neck. (C1-C4)

INSERTION:

Upper, Inner border of your wing bone. (Superior angle to the medial border of the scapula)

ACTION:

Elevates the scapula medially and inclines the head ipsilaterally. If you turn your head slightly to one side and then try and shrug your shoulder, you should feel the Levator Scapula engage.

REFERRED PAIN:

Trigger points in the Levator can refer pain to the red stippled area in the picture.

DISCUSSION:

This is the most common area in the body to experience “knots.” Poor ergonomics or extensive sitting will create a forward head posture. This leads to over stretching the Levator for prolonged periods of time creating weakness. Its referral pain patter resembles that of a cervical disc dysfunction with peri-scapular symptoms. It is worthwhile to get this muscle checked out if you experience any pain, numbness or tingling around your wing bone.

People often ask me what is the BEST chair to get for work. My answer is a wooden chair, no padding, no levers, and certainly no adjustments. Reason being? Because it is uncomfortable as hell and it will remind you to get up often and move around. The only thing that super-comfy, thousand dollar chairs create is more productivity without feeling the need to stand up. Good for the business, bad for your body..

Dr Marc Taczanowski

DC, DACBSP, CSCS, EMT-B

Dr. Marc Taczanowski specializes in Sports Medicine, chiropractic care, injury prevention and management. He has published many articles on these topics and lectures to local running groups, and athletic organizations in an effort to educate the sports community.