Neck

levator scapulae

leh-VAY-tor SKAP-yoo-lee

The levator scapulae runs from the upper neck vertebrae to the top of the shoulder blade, lifting the scapula toward the head. It's key for shrugging motions and stabilizing the shoulder during overhead lifts. Gym-goers target it indirectly through shrugs and neck training to prevent shoulder hikes and imbalances.

Open in 3D Viewer

Common Pain & Injury

Commonly strains from poor posture or heavy lifting, causing neck stiffness and scapular pain radiating to the shoulder. Injury patterns include trigger points from desk work. Seek medical help if pain persists beyond a week or with numbness.

Anatomy & Function

Origin

Transverse processes of C1-C4 vertebrae (upper neck bones)

Insertion

Superior angle of scapula (top inner corner of shoulder blade)

Actions

Elevates scapula (shrugs shoulders)
Assists neck extension and lateral flexion

Innervation

Dorsal scapular nerve (C4-C5)

Muscle Relationships

Antagonists

Pectoralis minorSerratus anterior

Synergists

Trapezius (upper)Rhomboid minor

Trigger Points

Forms along the medial scapular border; refers pain to the neck, shoulder, and sometimes angle of jaw.

Stretches

1Levator scapulae stretch

2Side neck tilt with chin tuck

3Scapular depression stretch

Common Conditions

Levator scapulae syndromeCervical strainMyofascial pain syndrome

Anatomical Parts

Left levator scapulaeRight levator scapulae

FAQ

What does levator scapulae do?

It lifts the shoulder blade and aids neck movement, crucial for posture.

Levator scapulae pain relief?

Stretch gently, improve posture, and use heat; see a PT for persistent knots.

Levator scapulae stretch?

Tilt head to opposite side while fixing scapula down for best release.

Why is my neck and shoulder hurting?

Tight levator scapulae from stress or lifting often refers pain there.

Exercises for levator scapulae

20

Also Works levator scapulae

10

Alternating Hang Clean position 1

Alternating Hang Clean position 2

Alternating Hang Clean

intermediate·kettlebells

Anti-Gravity Press position 1

Anti-Gravity Press position 2

Anti-Gravity Press

beginner·barbell

Arm Circles position 1

Arm Circles position 2

Arm Circles

Atlas Stones position 1

Atlas Stones position 2

Atlas Stones

Axle Deadlift position 1

Axle Deadlift position 2

Axle Deadlift

intermediate·other

Band Pull Apart position 1

Band Pull Apart position 2

Band Pull Apart

beginner·bands

Barbell Deadlift position 1

Barbell Deadlift position 2

Barbell Deadlift

intermediate·barbell

Bent Over Low-Pulley Side Lateral position 1

Bent Over Low-Pulley Side Lateral position 2

Bent Over Low-Pulley Side Lateral

beginner·cable

Bent Over One-Arm Long Bar Row position 1

Bent Over One-Arm Long Bar Row position 2

Bent Over One-Arm Long Bar Row

beginner·barbell

Cable Seated Lateral Raise position 1

Cable Seated Lateral Raise position 2

Cable Seated Lateral Raise

beginner·cable

Related Neck Muscles

arytenoid cartilage

Paired laryngeal cartilages in throat enabling voice production via vocal cord movement. Not muscle but closest for neck; singers train supporting muscles. Vital for breathing/speaking.

Ascending part of right trapezius

The ascending part of the right trapezius is the uppermost portion of the trapezius muscle on the right side, running from the base of the skull and upper cervical spine up toward the clavicle and shoulder. It elevates the scapula (shoulder blade) and assists in neck extension and rotation, crucial for shrugging movements and maintaining upright posture during lifts. Strong ascending traps prevent neck strain in overhead presses and rows.

cervical rotator

Cervical rotators are deep neck muscles like obliquus capitis inferior and splenius cervicis that turn the head side-to-side. Located deep in the upper cervical spine, they enable rotation for looking over shoulder. Vital for neck mobility in sports and daily turns.

The cricothyroid is a small intrinsic laryngeal muscle in the anterior neck, tensing vocal cords for higher pitch. Located between cricoid and thyroid cartilages, it's key for singing and speaking. Matters for vocal athletes like singers.

The digastric has anterior and posterior bellies under the jaw, opening the mouth by depressing mandible. Runs from mandible to mastoid via sling, key for chewing and yawning.

Thin neck muscle under chin pulling hyoid forward/up, geniohyoid aids swallowing and tongue movement. Supports neck stability in planks.

The hyoglossus is a thin tongue muscle running from the hyoid bone (under chin) up into the tongue's side. It depresses and retracts the tongue, aiding swallowing and speech. Rarely targeted in fitness, but dysfunction affects eating and breathing mechanics.

iliocostalis cervicis

Iliocostalis cervicis is the neck portion of the erector spinae, running vertically along upper back to cervical ribs. It extends and laterally bends the neck, vital for posture in overhead lifts and sports. Supports head stability in fitness.

Neck Pain Guide

Common causes and relief

Activities & Sports

See which activities use levator scapulae