Synonyms
Latin: Musculus levator scapulae
History
Base: Upper angle of the shoulder blade (Angulus superior scapulae) Origin: Posterior tubercles of the transverse processes of the 1st – 4th cervical vertebra (Tubercula posterica of the Processus costa transversarii) Innervation: N. dorsalis scapulae, Plexus cervicalis, C 3 – 5
Function
The levator scapulae lifts the shoulder blade forward and upwards and thus supports the function of the trapezius muscle. In addition, it supports the inclination of the neck to the same side and, in case of tension on both sides, it supports the return of the head to the neck (e.g. when observing the night sky).
Common diseases
The shoulder blade lifter connects the neck with the shoulder blade and often causes neck pain when tensed. It is also difficult to turn your head. Massages are helpful in this situation to loosen the tense muscles.
The shoulder blade lifter is trained in the same way as the trapezius muscle. The best way to specifically train this muscle is the following exercise:
- Shoulder Lift
In order to pull the shoulder blade lifter in length, the head must be tilted to the side. The arm on the opposite side can have a supporting function.