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vIsIt thE DIgItal EDItIOn at massagEanDbODywORK.COm tO vIEw a vIDEO ClIP DEmOnstRatIng thIs tEChnIquE. vertebrae helps the levator scapula maintain tension and force production throughout its range of motion. This palpable thickening is not a trigger point or adhesion, but rather a normal structural feature of the levator scapula. The levator scapula is commonly overused and hypertonic as a result of asymmetrical carrying, lifting, and decreased. It is not uncommon for this to appear asymmetrical, with the distance on one side being shorter than the other. Manual manipulation and stretching of the levator scapula will lengthen the muscle, increase the distance between the head and scapula, and decompress the cervical spine. Client Homework— Stretching POsItIOnIng: ClIEnt sEatED 1. sit up straight with your head centered over your shoulders. L: Functional Anatomy: A Guide of Musculoskeletal atomy for Profs pincott Williams & Wilkins ure 04.37 gonfly Media Group 20/08 10/08 reaching with the upper extremity. Activities of daily living that contribute to dysfunction of this muscle include using a computer mouse, carrying a bag or backpack on one shoulder, or holding a phone between the head and shoulder. The levator scapula works in conjunction with other muscles such as trapezius or rhomboids; thus, any dysfunction often will be paralleled in these synergistic groups. Overuse and tightness of the levator scapula contributes to elevated shoulder posture, characterized by decreased distance between the scapula and the head. This postural deviation can compress the cervical spine, decrease shoulder mobility, and contribute to tension headaches. Shortness in this muscle is easily observed with the client seated. In this position, the distance between the ear or mastoid process and the top of the scapula will be markedly PALPATING LEVATOR SCAPULA Positioning (see image above): client prone 1. Stand beside your client's head and find the superior angle of the scapula on the same side. 2. Find the transverse processes of the upper cervical vertebrae with the fingertips of your other, palpating hand. 3. Follow the muscle belly of the levator scapula inferiorly toward the scapula. 4. Instruct the client to resist scapular elevation to assure proper location. massage therapist, certified athletic trainer, and certified strength and conditioning specialist. Her private practice focuses on injury treatment, biomechanical analysis, craniosacral therapy, and massage for clients with neuro- logical issues. She is the author of Functional Anatomy: Kinesiology and Palpation for Manual Therapists (Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, 2009), scheduled for release in October. Contact her at functionalbook@ hotmail.com. Christy Cael is a nationally certified 98 massage & bodywork may/june 2009 2.lengthen your arms by pressing your hands toward the floor or grasping the edges of your chair. 3. Keeping your eyes forward, tip your ear toward one shoulder until you feel a slight stretch. 4. Rotate your head slightly toward your shoulder as you tuck your chin until you feel a slight stretch between your neck and shoulder. 5.take several deep breaths as you relax and stretch your levator scapula. Repeat as necessary.