Origin
C1-C4 vertebrae.
Insertion
Scapula
Blood supply
Dorsal scapular artery.
Nerve supply
C3, C4, C5 nerves.
Action
The muscle helps to raise the shoulder and shoulder blade. It also assists in rotating the neck and bending the neck to the sides.
Disease/Injury
There may be pain in the levator scapulae muscle if you sleep on the stomach with neck to one side or holding mobile between the ear and shoulder.
Muscle Exercise
Dumbbell shrugs and weighted neck flexion and extension help to strengthen the levator scapulae muscle.
Interesting facts
Carrying heavy purse or bag on the back may affect the levator scapulae muscle. Cough and cold also causes pain in the muscle.
