Lurking beneath your shoulder blade, a muscle named levator scapulae plays a crucial role in raising and tilting your shoulder blades.
But when this hardworking muscle goes awry, it can unleash a symphony of pain, stiffness, and discomfort.
Levator scapulae dysfunction is one of the most common muscle complaints, with general causes likely to include:
Poor Posture
- Hunched positions can overstretch and strain the levator scapulae muscles.
- Non ergonomic setting for work or study
- Using smartphone
Cervical Spine Dysfunction
- Injuries to the neck or upper spinal column and nearby structures
Stress/Anxiety
- Muscle tension and stiffness
Pressure on Shoulder
- Carrying a bag with straps with one shoulder
- Occupational musicians such as violinist, cellist, guitarist
Sleeping Position
- Sleeping on stomach with the head turned
- Too high or too low pillow
Scapulohumeral Rhythm Related to Overhead Activity
- Tight upper trapezius can lead to upward rotation, imposing more stress when you try to rotate downward.
Another cause for the pain can be the nerve that travels under the levator scapulae muscle. Imagine the levator scapulae as a bridge, connecting your neck to your shoulder blade. It’s innervated by the dorsal scapular nerve (branching from the cervical spine).
This nerve acts as a messenger, carrying signals between your brain and the muscle, controlling its movement and sensation.
When the muscle gets tight, it can irritate these nerves, sending pain signals straight to your brain and can lead to levator scapulae pain, often described as a dull ache or burning sensation in the upper back, neck, and shoulder.
- Promote muscle relaxation – Needles stimulate the nervous system to release endorphins, natural pain relievers that ease muscle tension and reduce nerve irritation.
- Release trigger points – Tight knots of muscle fibers can trap pain. Acupuncture can help release these trigger points, easing tension and improving mobility.
- Modulate nerve signals – The needles may influence the activity of the dorsal scapular nerve, reducing pain signals reaching the brain.
- Improve blood flow – Increased circulation brings oxygen and nutrients to the muscle, promoting relaxation and reducing inflammation.
The beauty of acupuncture lies in its personalized approach.
Your acupuncturist will tailor the treatment to your specific needs and the underlying cause of your pain.
Whether it’s poor posture, repetitive strain, or stress, acupuncture can offer a gentle yet effective way to address the nerve irritation and muscle tension at the root of your levator scapulae pain.
Remember, acupuncture is a complementary therapy and should be considered alongside other lifestyle modifications like stretching, posture correction, and stress management.
With all of the above, you can unlock the potential of your body’s natural healing power and find relief from the nagging pain in your shoulders.
So, if you’re struggling with levator scapulae pain, don’t hesitate to explore the possibilities of acupuncture.
It might just be the bridge you need to a pain-free, shoulder-swaying future.
References
Levator scapulae syndrome: an anatomic-clinical study
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8374486/
Anatomy, Head and Neck, Levator Scapulae Muscles
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK553120/
Anatomy, Shoulder and Upper Limb, Dorsal Scapular Nerve
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK459343/
A Rare Variation of the Levator Scapulae Muscle: A Case Report and Review of Literature
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10445243/
Analysis of Scapular Kinematics and Muscle Activity by Use of Fine-Wire Electrodes During Shoulder Exercises
https://doi.org/10.1177/036354652090860
https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/0363546520908604
DISCLAIMER – Link to the Whole Statement
While this blog offers helpful information, it’s not a substitute for medical advice. As an individual’s health concerns are unique and require professional guidance, do not rely solely on online information for self-diagnosis or treatment. If you have health concerns, always consult a healthcare professional for personalized diagnosis and treatment.
