Seated Upper Trapezius Myofascial Release

Check out a sample video from the book Myofascial Release, Second Edition by Ruth Duncan, BSc (Hons), MSMTO, MAPNT. Learn more https://ecs.page.link/XLouz This is a transverse technique to spread the tissues. 1. Have the client sit with a supported back without slouching. Use a pillow at the back if necessary. 2. Stand to the side of and face behind the client. 3. Contact the lateral neck with the proximal third of the flexor compartment of your forearm so that your hand is facing behind the client. 4. Ask the client to extend the head and neck slightly to a comfortable position. 5. Lean slowly and gradually down onto the top of the client’s shoulder. 6. Wait for the tissue to change and soften, then slowly drag the tissue down the upper back. 7. As you are slowly dragging down the upper back, ask the client to slowly drop the head forwards into flexion, tucking the chin as close to the chest as possible. 8. Continue to drag your arm slowly and in a controlled manner down the upper back between the scapula and the spine, waiting for the tissue to let you move. You will only need to move about 2 to 2.5 inches (5–6 cm) at the most. 9. Ask the client to lift the head to the starting position, then release your pressure. 10. Repeat the process three or four times at a very slightly different angle so that you are making a fan shape from the client’s shoulder onto the upper back, taking care not to push or lean onto the scapula. 11. Repeat on the opposite shoulder. Tip: As you slowly drag down the upper back, some people are so tight here that you can only move about 0.8 to 1.2 inches (2–3 cm). This area can be sensitive, and some will push their shoulders up to resist your pressure. This is an immediate clue to lighten your pressure and start slower, gradually leaning further into the tissue as it changes.