Wednesday, September 9, 2015

Muscle of the Month: Levator Scapula

Muscle of the Month


Levator Scapula

  • Origin: The transverse process of C1-C4 in the cervical spine (neck).
  • Insertion: Medial border of the scapula, on the superior portion
  • Nerve: Cervical nerves 3 and 4, and the dorsal scapular nerve, exiting the neck at C4 and C5
  • Action:  Elevates the scapula, laterally flexes the head and neck and rotates the head and neck to the same side, and rotates the scapula.  This muscle also helps extend the head and neck.

When do you use your Levator Scapula?

  • Looking over your shoulder when changing lanes
  • Shrugging your shoulders
  • Holding a phone between your shoulders
  • Laying on your side with your head on a pillow 
 

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