Throughout the years, only a small amount of research has been conducted to study the anatomy of the lower trapezius. However, there is plenty of research regarding the role of the lower trapezius in scapula function and the association between lower trapezius dysfunction and shoulder pain. A notable study conducted in 1994 on the anatomy of the lower trapezius found that the lower trapezius begins on the spine and lengthens from the T2 to T12 vertebrae, inserting onto the spine of the scapula from the acromion process to its root. According to the anatomy study, the lower trapezius closely follows the middle trapezius which attaches to the C7 and T1 vertebrae, also attaching to the spine of the scapula. The lower trapezius is a multipennate muscle which is innervated by the accessory nerve, or the eleventh cranial nerve, and the ventral rami of the third and fourth cervical nerves along the cervical plexus.
The scapula is the foundation of all upper limb kinetic chain movements. To function effectively, it must have enough flexibility and mobility to achieve the necessary positions to allow the humerus to move smoothly, without impingement. It also needs to remain strong and stable during upper limb movements, specifically overhead sports activities to provide the proper transmission of force from the body to the hand, most important in athletic activities such as swimming, tennis and throwing sports.
The lower trapezius is a muscle that plays an essential role during scapula movement and positioning as well as dynamic scapula stability. The upward rotation, posterior tilt, and external rotation movements of the scapula function to increase the width of the subacromial space during humeral elevation. Nonetheless, a lack of proper scapula function, or scapula dyskinesis, can increase the adaptation of the humeral head, altering the position and motion of the scapula, often leading to injury.
The lower trapezius is a muscle which has been suggested to function ideally with the mechanics of the scapula. It has been acknowledged that improper mobilization of the scapula, also referred to as scapula dyskinesis, during overhead activities may lead athletes to experience sports injuries in the form of impingement, subacromial bursitis and instability. For more information, contact us at (915) 850-0900.
Professional Scope of Practice *
The information herein on "The Lower Trapezius and Chiropractic Care" is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified health care professional or licensed physician and is not medical advice. We encourage you to make healthcare decisions based on your research and partnership with a qualified healthcare professional.
Blog Information & Scope Discussions
Our information scope is limited to Chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, contributing etiological viscerosomatic disturbances within clinical presentations, associated somatovisceral reflex clinical dynamics, subluxation complexes, sensitive health issues, and/or functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions.
We provide and present clinical collaboration with specialists from various disciplines. Each specialist is governed by their professional scope of practice and their jurisdiction of licensure. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for the injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system.
Our videos, posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate to and directly or indirectly support our clinical scope of practice.*
Our office has reasonably attempted to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We provide copies of supporting research studies available to regulatory boards and the public upon request.
We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation of how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez, DC, or contact us at 915-850-0900.
We are here to help you and your family.
Blessings
Dr. Alex Jimenez DC, MSACP, RN*, CCST, IFMCP*, CIFM*, ATN*
email: coach@elpasofunctionalmedicine.com
Licensed as a Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) in Texas & New Mexico*
Texas DC License # TX5807, New Mexico DC License # NM-DC2182
Licensed as a Registered Nurse (RN*) in Florida
Florida License RN License # RN9617241 (Control No. 3558029)
Compact Status: Multi-State License: Authorized to Practice in 40 States*
Presently Matriculated: ICHS: MSN* FNP (Family Nurse Practitioner Program)
Dr. Alex Jimenez DC, MSACP, RN* CIFM*, IFMCP*, ATN*, CCST
My Digital Business Card
For individuals trying to retrain their body movements for back health improvement, what is the… Read More
Can individuals with body pain incorporate Pilates to reduce general aches and pains while strengthening… Read More
Sleep is vital at all ages, but what is the amount of sleep for older… Read More
Can individuals dealing with joint pain incorporate turmeric as part of their treatment to reduce… Read More
Individuals who have been injured or ill or have a chronic disability may be having… Read More
Can individuals incorporate ways to increase their vitamin C levels to boost their immune system… Read More