http://www.painexercises.net/neck-pain-exercise

@ Jamie – Interesting question, I think you keyed in on the answer. Part of the issue may in fact be myofascial trigger points, which the trapezius is loaded with. So, the simple act of returning movement, blood flow, oxygen and stronger neurological stimulation at a gentle level (2 lb dumbbells) could be enough to begin to release trigger points. Plus, any movement helps free up the fascia around and within muscle.

Your question really speaks to the bigger issue with all research that involves a fitness protocol and a health benefit. They are are “correlative,” not “causative.” They can correlate doing a particular activity with a specific benefit, but cannot show how that activity actually “causes” the benefit.

I deal with clients whom suffer from Trapezius Myalgia on a regular basis. Usually the cause is OVER active traps not under active. In which case doing exercises to directly strengthen the muscle would most likely cause even more problems.

I’ll normally prescribe rear delt flys but the other two exercises I tend to steer away from.

I suspect a lot of the relief may come from the increased blood flow to the area and less from the actual strengthening.

My 2 cents.

Great post. I’ve had trapezius myalgia (although I’d never have known to call it that…lol) and headaches off and on for years and I’ve tried a variety of exercises/stretches without much result. I’ll be giving these a try for sure, and I’d love, love, LOVE, for you to share the simple yoga sequences you mentioned.

Warmly,
Lisa

He he he.

If I could email massages, I’d be retired from what I do now, even though I love it. The demand for e-massage ought to be astronomical!

Until later,

Kelly

@ Kelly – Hey, if you wanna throw in a nice shoulder massage three times a week, who am I to say no?!

@ Shama – That is a great stretch, releases the front of the shoulders and chest, which often gets really locked down working in front of a desk.

There are actually some pretty cool, yet simple yoga therapy sequences I know for neck, shoulder and head pain, I think I might share them in a later post.