Overview Semispinalis cervicis fits between the deeper multifidi and the more superficial erectors and serratus anterior. It is a thin muscle that connects the transverse processes of the upper thoracic vertebrae with the mid-cervical vertebrae. Consequently, It is in a position to trap and compress the lower cervical vertebrae. Interestingly, the posterior rami of those […]
Multifidi and Rotatores The anatomy studies and illustrations of the multifidus and rotatores vary a great deal. In general, They anchor near the base of the transverse process of a vertebra. Then, strands of muscle extend to spinous processes of the five vertebrae above them. There are exceptions to that generalization. Overall Structure Multifidi and
Overview The Levator scapula is a ropy extrinsic back muscle that connects the scapula to the upper cervical vertebrae. Its function and variations are more involved than most muscles. Origin Insertion Function Nerve As the name implies, it elevates the scapula. This action assists in the downward rotation of the scapula. Anchoring the upper extremity
Here are some specific stretches for scalene muscles that have been recommended by many sources over the years. They were published in the self-care section on scalenes in the research of Janet Travell, the physician to two presidents. Clinical experience has proven them to be effective for helping the problematic effects of tight scalene muscles. Helpful
People complain about waking with stiff, swollen hands in the morning. Some of them have problems with tingling and sleeping hands in the night. They often get up and move their arms around until the tingling stops and the arms are awake again. Sometimes, they have stiff hands, pain, or tingling when they hold their arms
When the trigger point severely restricts the muscle, people complain of pain, burning, tingling, and “that numb feeling” on the back of the head. They are often concerned because the pain is tingling and can feel prickly along the back of their head. They may say that it bothers them less now but will bother
Want to skip ahead?Here’s a link to my post about getting relief on your own. With this pattern, people complain of a headache behind the eye. That’s not enough information. When the headache pattern is severe, patients may trace it with their hand. Starting from the back of their neck, they move along the side of
“Migraine” When this headache is very active, people wave their hands around their heads and say that they have a headache all over. Sometimes, when I ask, the details tell me that it is not all over. Instead, they are overwhelmed and it feels more like a band around the side of the head. But,
Primary Complaint Clients touch the top of their heads, saying, “I have a headache on the top of my head.” Often, they lean forward with their chin up and turn to one side while talking. Frequently, they slump forward at the waist while sitting to make this more comfortable. Seemingly, they naturally adopt the posture of
Want to skip ahead?Here’s a link to my post about getting relief on your own. Sometimes, Its One Side This headache pattern creates a strong band of tension along the base of the head that comes up over the back of the head. When it is only active on one side, the pain is focused
