Shoulder Ache

What stretch can I do to make the pain in my levator scapulae muscle go away?

Matthew's reply: Hi, for those that don't know, the levator scapulae muscle is at the back and side of your neck. Pain in this area, i.e. back of neck and tops of shoulders, is common and may be caused by such factors as emotional stress and tension, sports and other physical activities, sitting hunched over a desk, or sleeping in the wrong position.

There are lots of exercises you can try, depending on the exact cause of the stiffness and pain in your muscles. It also depends on the exact location. Other muscles may be involved too.

For pain and stiffness at the back of your neck and upper back try the back arch. For pain and stiffness radiating from the tops of your shoulders up the sides of your neck to the base of your skull try these two acupressure points (at bottom of page).

Try the above techniques for a few days. If you don't get much relief let me know (by posting below) as there are other exercises and techniques for neck and shoulder pain that you can try.

All the best,

Matthew