Massage.
VideotechniqueJohn GibbonsDraft

BEST way to treat Trapezius, Levator & SCM using Muscle energy techniques (METs)

A sports osteopath and course lecturer demonstrates muscle energy techniques for the upper trapezius, levator scapulae and sternocleidomastoid with the client lying on their back. He shows three ways to get the client to contract the muscle gently, then uses the out-breath to ease the neck into a new stretch.

BEST way to treat Trapezius, Levator & SCM using Muscle energy techniques (METs) · John Gibbons · YouTube

Video: BEST way to treat Trapezius, Levator & SCM using Muscle energy techniques (METs), https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M19BRcRd-ig

Length5:44
RatingClarity 4/5 · Credibility 5/5 · Relevance 4/5
Sports osteopath and author of a textbook on METs. Neck and shoulder rather than hamstrings.
Coverstechniques/muscle-energy-technique · techniques/post-isometric-relaxation · muscles/trapezius · muscles/levator-scapulae · muscles/sternocleidomastoid
Watchhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M19BRcRd-ig

Chapters

  1. 0:00 Introduction to supine treatment
  2. 0:35 Treating upper trapezius
  3. 2:46 Treating levator scapulae
  4. 4:14 Rotating and SCM treatment

Key points

  • The therapist sits at the head of the table and side-bends the neck to a comfortable first barrier.
  • The client contracts gently (about 20%, not 80%) for up to 10 seconds, by shrugging, side-bending or both.
  • On the out-breath, stabilise the shoulder and ease the neck a little further.
  • Asking the client to reach the hand towards the knee uses the lower trapezius to help the upper trapezius relax.
  • Adding rotation brings the sternocleidomastoid and scalenes into the stretch.

Cautions

  • Neck techniques need care; avoid pain and keep contractions gentle.
  • Clinical (osteopathic) context, beyond Cert IV relaxation massage.