Where should I feel the stretch?

You should feel a localized pull along the back and side of your neck, extending from the base of your skull down to the top of your shoulder blade.

How long should I hold this position?

For best results, hold the stretch for 20 to 30 seconds. Repeat two to three times per side to effectively reduce muscle tension.

What if I feel sharp pain?

Stop immediately if you feel sharp, radiating, or electric-like sensations. This stretch should only produce a mild pulling feeling in the muscle tissue.

Right Levator Scapulae Stretch Guide

Learn how to perform the right levator scapulae stretch to relieve neck pain and shoulder tension with our step-by-step guide.

How to Perform

Sit or stand tall with your shoulders relaxed and your gaze directed straight ahead.
Rotate your head forty-five degrees to the left so you are looking toward your left armpit.
Gently tilt your chin down toward your chest as if trying to touch your chin to your collarbone.
Place your left hand on the back of your head and apply very light pressure to deepen the stretch.
Reach your right arm down toward the floor or grab the bottom of your chair to keep the right shoulder pinned down.
Hold this position for thirty seconds while breathing deeply into the side of your neck.
Slowly release the pressure and return your head to a neutral position.

Common Mistakes

Pulling too hard on the head with the hand
Allowing the right shoulder to shrug upward toward the ear
Holding your breath during the stretch
Rounding the lower back instead of staying upright

Muscles Worked

Primary movers

Neck

Stabilizers

Upper Trapezius
Rhomboids
Scalenes

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Neck · Strength