Your levator scapulae are muscles that are located between your neck and shoulder on either side of your body. The muscles are attached to your first four cervical vertebrae and the top of your scapula or shoulder blade. The levator scapulae muscles are responsible for shrugging your shoulders and are used for tasks like carrying heavy grocery bags. You can perform simple stretching exercises to keep your levator scapulae loose and functioning well.
Lateral Neck Flexion
The levator scapulae muscles help move your neck laterally, so stretching that way will keep them loose and flexible. Sitting comfortably with your head facing forward, slowly lean your ear toward one shoulder until you feel the stretch. Hold for 10 to 30 seconds. You can reach over your head with your opposite hand and assist the stretch if you like.
Forward Neck Flexion
A forward neck flexion stretch is similar to the lateral flexion, only forward. With the forward stretch, clasp your hands in front of your waist and slowly bring your chin toward your chest. Hold the stretch for 10 to 30 seconds.
Down and Twist
To add a twist to your levator scapulae stretch, start with your left hand on the back of your neck and your right hand on top of your head. Gently pull your head forward and twist it toward your right hip. Hold the stretch for 10 to 30 seconds.
Standing Stretch
To stretch your right levator scapulae muscle from a standing position, grab hold of your right wrist with your left hand behind your back. Pull your arm gently toward the left side. Turn your head to the left and let it hang forward to feel a stretch along the right side of your neck.
