Understanding the relationship between opposing muscle groups is crucial to receiving balanced and effective bodywork.  Our most common areas of tension are around the base of the neck and between the shoulders.  Even though this can be caused simply by stress, it is most commonly due to a mechanical imbalance in the muscle group.

(Medial Rotation)

There are several forces at work on the shoulder. The Pectoralis Major, Pectoralis Minor (Pecs), Subscapularis, and the Latissimus Dorsi (Lats) are known Anatomically as Medial Rotators because when flexed, they roll the shoulders forward (Medial Rotation) which pulls the Scapulae (Shoulder Blades) away from the Spine. This can create tension and pain in the opposing muscle group, specifically the Trapezius (Traps) and the Rhomboids. These are the Adductors, which are responsible for pulling the Shoulder Blades together, towards the spine.

Our typical daily activities (driving, sitting at a desk typing [this blog], carrying a bag or purse, etc.) activate the Pecs, Lats, and Subscapularis, and disengage the Traps and Rhomboids. Overtime this imbalance tends to exaggerate the negative effects of chronic Medial Rotation of the shoulder girdle.  Another common area of pain and discomfort which is negatively impacted by over-active Pecs and Lats are the upper Traps and Levator Scapula (a shrugging muscle). These muscles connect the top of the shoulder blade to the neck and skull. As with the Adductor group, this area tends to heal best when the Pecs and Lats are properly addressed.

(Solution)

When a client is set before me with upper back and neck tension, I generally recommend we start with the front of the shoulder. By reducing the tension here we are able to create slack in the Traps and Rhomboids, thereby improving comfort and functionality.  My clients are often surprised and delighted with the immediate relief felt between the shoulder blades while I'm addressing the Pectoral tissue. This is especially true during a Structural Integration session.

The sad truth is there are clients out there who don’t get balanced bodywork. Over time, it becomes visually apparent that the muscles on the back, around the shoulder blades, are the only ones that ever get worked. The tell-tale sign (to me) are clients who present exaggerated curvature in the upper back: shoulders pulled forward, neck arched back just to keep the eyes level with the horizon. (Think Mr. Burns from the Simpsons). It never fails to surprise me at how much pressure these people can take on their back muscles from all the years of isolated deep tissue work.  Typically, they have limited range of motion in the shoulder joint, and can only handle the most gentle pressure on the anterior shoulder.

A knowledgeable massage therapist or body worker, as I like to refer to myself, will address the complete body. Taking into consideration how (you) as an individual use your body on a daily basis, and work the opposing muscle groups accordingly.