Neck Stretches - Balance Massage Therapy Ann Arbor

For full script of the video - please see complete description below.

Balance Massage Therapy Ann Arbor
(734) 660-5919 Email: findbalance@lifeisactive.com
http://www.lifeisactive.com/
5155 Plymouth Rd, Ann Arbor, MI 48105
Hours: 
Monday - Saturday 10:00 am - 8:00 pm
Sunday 11:00 am - 6:00 pm

On this video we are going to cover the neck, and upper shoulders, and the muscles that are
involved are the Upper Trapezius or Traps, and Levator Scapula.

The the Upper Trapezius muscle is responsible for the elevation and upward rotation of the
shoulder blade.

Trapezius
The common causes for the Trapezius being overworked, or injured are: leaning your head
forward for an extended period of time for example writing, computer use and working on a
desk that it too high for you examples.

Cold weather, carrying a heavy bag or purse, cradling of the telephone between your shoulder
and neck, driving, riding a bike, and exercising are other common causes of the trapezius being
overworked

How to stretch the traps

Lock & Lean
Gently grasp the side of your head while the other arm is behind your back. Tilt head away
until you feel a good stretch. Hold the stretch for 20-30 seconds.

Then repeat on the other side. The goal of this stretch is to help lengthen the trapezius muscle.
You can do this stretch throughout the day, as needed.

Levator Scapula:
The other muscle we are going to look at is the Levator Scapula. The Levator scapula is
responsible for the elevation and downward rotation of the shoulder blade. It also assists the
extension, and rotation of the neck to the side.

Common causes for the Levator being overworked, or injured are: looking sideways for a long
period of time, example is having a monitor off to one side or turning your head to watch the

television. Cradling the telephone between the shoulders and neck, and falling asleep tilting
your head backwards or to one side.

How to stretch the Levator

Hold & Lean
Place a hand on the shoulder blade, turn your head away from your hand towards the other
shoulder, and with other hand gently stretch head down towards your arm pit. Hold stretch for
20-30 secs. Repeat the other side.

Please remember that the goal these stretches is to feel release in the muscle, NOT to
push through any pain. Stretches should be slow and controlled movement. If you feel
pain when doing this stretch please stop immediately. Feel free to contact us by email
at findbalance@lifeisactive.com for more information or you can talk to your therapist at
your next visit.

Thanks for finding Balance.