HOW TO FIX NECK & LEVATOR SCAPULAE PAIN.

HOW TO FIX LEVATOR SCAPULAE PAIN.

Welcome back to the stretching samurai Chronicles. Tonight we're going to overlook one of the biggest problems in gyms today. The levator scapulae is often a big source of problems for many clients hitting the gym for the first time.

In my previous articles, I emphasized the importance of understanding that the human body is lateralized to the right. Most of your clients will come with a ribcage that is internally rotated on the right side and externally rotated on the left side. So what would be the best procedure to fix such a deviation. For my part, I start by assessing the diaphragm and if needed, mobilizing the ribcage. Once this is done and the ribcage expansion is ideal, start by trigger pointing or PNF stretching the levator scapulae & upper trapezius muscle. These muscles are responsible for 70% of the proprioception and rotation of the neck.

Now that we have regained mobility in the neck, the next step would be to deactivate and stretch the right latissimus dorsi and the left pectoralis major. Also it may not be a bad idea to stretch the quadratus lumborum on the right side . The next step is to strengthen the stabilizers of the right shoulder girdle. You will need to strengthen the rhomboids, low trapezius, serratus anterior and triceps brachii on the right side. This should help the right levator scapulae to relax and get into a better posture.

There are other factors to consider in this matter. Sometimes the cause might be linked to jaw problems due to clinching while training. In this case, I would suggest your client buy a mouthguard by New Age Performance. Its worth the money as most clients grind there teeth when they train. As for the left levator scapulae, I have found that a shorter leg or laxity in ligaments(Iliofemoral & Pubefemoral) are often the cause of such a pain. To fix this issue consult a good Posturologist.

 Last but not least, STRESS is a major contributor to all of the above. Make sure that your leisure activity does not create more stress and higher physiological loads on the body. If you feel stiff and overworked , maybe try a low impact yoga class or a good massage. I hope these tips helped you and thks for reading.