Opposite shoulder rises to meet the head
Upper trap on the opposite side shortens; the stretch is reduced.
Overactive muscles
Upper trapeziusLevator scapulae
Corrective work
Foam RollUpper traps↗StretchLevator scapulae stretch↗Mobility · Upper Body
Neck Side Stretch (Upper Trap / Levator)
Coaching cues
- Sit or stand tall; tilt the ear toward the shoulder
- Use the ipsilateral hand to gently increase the stretch
- Opposite shoulder stays down and away — don't shrug
- Hold 30–60 seconds each side
Common faults 2
Trunk laterally flexes instead of just the neck
The whole spine tilts; the neck stretch is lost.
Overactive muscles
Quadratus lumborumLatissimus dorsi
Corrective work
Foam RollQuadratus lumborum↗StretchQL side-bend stretch↗