Revised levator scapula exericse | An important stabilizer of the scapula and cervical spine

The levator scapulae are frequently vilified for being culprits of pain, compensated and dysfunctional scapular movements, and "hyperactivity". The reality is that the levator scapulae are important stabilizers of the cervical-, and especially upper cervical spine segments. It also stabilizes the scapula, prevents depression of the collarbone during appropriate anterior tilting (eg., during high degree of humeral extension), and protects the emerging cervical plexus. Weakness of the levator scapulae can cause problems with all of the formerly mentioned.