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When the Shoulder Tightens: How Modern-World Stress Mimics Parasitic Grip on Muscle
Introduction: The Feeling of Being “Occupied”
In clinical practice, patients often describe severe shoulder tension with strikingly visceral metaphors:
“It feels like something is burrowing under the muscle,”
“like a creature is clenching my shoulder blade,”
“like something is twisting the fibres from inside.”
While no known human parasite is capable of physically “contorting” shoulder muscles in this manner, the sensory illusion of invasive movement or twisting is surprisingly common in people under chronic stress. Modern neurophysiology shows that intense psychological strain can create sensations so vivid that patients liken them to parasitic occupation.
This article explores why shoulder muscles react so dramatically to stress, what real parasites do (and don’t do), and why the metaphor of “muscular parasitism” may be more accurate—psychologically and physiologically—than it first appears.
1. The Shoulder as a Stress Hotspot
The Anatomical Perfect Storm
The shoulder girdle—anchored by the trapezius, levator scapulae, rhomboids, supraspinatus, infraspinatus, and the rotator cuff complex—is uniquely vulnerable to stress:
Large muscle groups with high postural load
Dense networks of sensory nerves
Stillness during digital tasks (typing, texting) causes static tension
Emotional stress triggers reflex elevation and tightening
When the sympathetic nervous system activates (“fight-or-flight”), the shoulder girdle contracts instinctively to protect the neck—an evolutionary remnant. Repeated activation creates chronic spasm, knotting, and sometimes fasciculations (tiny involuntary twitches), which can feel eerily alive.
2. The “Parasitic” Sensation: A Neurobiological Explanation
Muscle Twisting, Crawling, and “Internal Motion”
Stress-induced phenomena that mimic parasitic movement include:
a. Myofascial Trigger Points
Hypercontracted fibres generate:
Deep, twisting pressure
Referred pain down the arm or into the skull
Local twitch response that can feel like movement under the skin
b. Fasciculations (Muscle Twitches)
Triggered by:
Prolonged muscle tension
Magnesium deficiency
Overuse
Sleep deprivation
Patients often describe them as tiny organisms squirming beneath the surface.
c. Stress-Amplified Somatosensory Perception
Chronic anxiety heightens interoception—the brain’s tracking of internal signals. Mundane sensations become:
Exaggerated
Mistranslated
Sometimes interpreted as invasive or foreign
This explains why stress can produce a quasi-parasitic bodily narrative without any actual infection.
3. Real Parasites That Affect Muscle—What Science Actually Knows
No known parasite selectively “contorts” shoulder muscles due to psychological stress. However, several real organisms can inhabit muscle tissue, causing pain, spasm, or structural damage:
a. Trichinella spiralis
Transmitted via undercooked meat
Larvae embed in skeletal muscle
Causes inflammation, fever, and severe myalgia
Does not create twisting or crawling sensations
b. Toxoplasma gondii (less commonly muscular)
Can form cysts in muscle tissue
Usually asymptomatic
c. Cysticercosis (tapeworm larvae)
Can lodge in muscle and create palpable nodules
Rare in shoulders; usually painless
These conditions are not triggered by stress, nor do they cause the contortions or movements that patients metaphorically describe.
4. Why Modern Stress Feels “Parasitic”
The metaphor is intriguing because stress behaves—physiologically—like something that feeds on the body:
a. Energy Drain
Chronic cortisol elevation breaks down muscle protein and impairs repair.
b. Neural Hijacking
The sympathetic system overrides voluntary relaxation; the body feels acted upon.
c. Patterned Tension
Shoulder muscles become “programmed” into contraction, operating outside conscious control.
To many patients, this loss of agency—the sense that something else is steering the muscle—feels parasitic, even though the cause is internal and psychological.
5. Treatment: Breaking the Cycle
Physical interventions
Myofascial release therapy
Targeted rotator cuff strengthening
Scapular mobility exercises
Heat therapy to reduce sympathetic tone
Neurological and psychological
Diaphragmatic breathing to downshift autonomic activity
Mind-body therapies (ACT, mindfulness-based stress reduction)
Cognitive reframing for somatic misinterpretation
Sleep restoration
Lifestyle modifications
Ergonomic workstation adjustments
Frequent microbreaks during digital work
Reduction in stimulant intake (caffeine, energy drinks)
Conclusion: A Real Condition Wearing a Metaphorical Mask
Shoulder muscles cannot literally be “contorted by parasites due to stresses in the modern world.” But the modern human experience—screens, overload, vigilance, pressure—creates a somatic landscape where stress behaves as invasively as any parasite, commandeering muscle fibers, stealing energy, and producing sensations so bizarre that many people describe them with biological imagery.
Understanding this phenomenon through a medical lens doesn’t diminish the metaphor—it makes it more profound. Stress doesn’t need to be a living organism to feel like one.
DISCLAIMER: By the way, the picture is of sand patterns on a Highland beach. The description is some non-medical concoction created by ChatGPT
quote by: Johann Schiller
Sons are a heritage from the LORD, children a reward from him. Psalm 127:3
something different...
my 3-month-old son and I :))
thanks everyone for the views, comments, faves and invites!!
Felszerelés:
Canon 600D Baader szűrővel
Tamron SP 150-600mm f/5-6.3 Di VC USD G2
OPTOLONG L-eNhance CCD-szűrő (EOS clip APS-C)
SkyWatcher Star Adventurer mechanika
Manfrotto MT055XPRO3 alumínium állvány
32 mm-es 1,25" keresőtávcső
Lacerta MGEN-II Stand Alone AutoGuider
Fotó:
Dátum / idő: 2022-01-24, 02-09, 02-11
Expoziciós idő:
95x120 sec 3h10s
30x10 sec (Trapézium)
10x10x10 korrekciós képek
F-szám: f/6.3
Fókusztávolság: 500 mm
Szoftver:
Deep Sky Stacker
StarNet++
inverted lumen print.
getting down to the last of the mother's day flowers.
spider mums here.
I am a bit incapacitated at the moment. I'm contemplating shoulder replacement when I can't stand the pain anymore. in the meantime, I need to avoid the computer and the weeds in the yard.
there also seems to be a tendonitis problem involving my back and the trapezius muscle and its connection points.
i.e. I hurt.
getting old is hard. : )
lumen print
Wanted to see what crossfit does to a body.
Jessica's two months in, the plan is to take photos periodically, see the changes continued CRAZY CULT-LIKE WORKOUTS inflict.
And it's pretty fucking cool, man, seeing how muscle groups grow and change. Could've taken pictures of her trapezius muscles all.
day.
long.
Gets me into exploring the rest of her body, photographically. Stokes an interest in something other than faces.
Ah, faces, I will never tire of thee.
But veins and the tension in a flexed calf and on and on. There's a whole body calling out to be investigated...
summer.
getting down to the last of the mother's day flowers.
spider mums here.
I am a bit incapacitated at the moment. I'm contemplating shoulder replacement when I can't stand the pain anymore. in the meantime I need to avoid the computer and the weeds in the yard.
there also seems to be a tendonitis problem involving my back and the trapezius muscle and its connection points.
i.e. I hurt.
getting old is hard. : )
lumen print
new section on the "Queen Maeve Trail" up Knocknarea.
No photography for me (or anything) for ages, utter cripple with trapezius problems, loads of physio, getting there.
keep clicking :)
a large, flat muscle on the back that stretches to the sides, behind the arm, and is partly covered by the trapezius on the back near the midline.
(Trapezius and Deltoid Muscles)
The Double-crested Cormorant is found near rivers, lakes and along the coastline. It mainly eats fish and hunts by swimming and diving. Its feathers, like those of all cormorants, are not waterproof and it must spend time drying them out after spending time in the water. Cormorants capture fish by diving from the surface of the water, sometimes to a depth of 100 ft.
Florida Cormorant the smallest of the five subspecies, it is found from southern and central Texas east to the Atlantic and from North Carolina south to Florida.
I found this one at the intersection of Marsh Rabbit Run and Wading Bird Way, at Circle B Bar Reserve, drying out its feathers.
Polk County, Florida.
Photo: Matt www.flickr.com/photos/cheaterfive/
1. Pectoralis Major
Latin, pectoralis, chest; major, large.
Along with pectoralis minor, it forms the anterior wall of the axilla.
Origin
Clavicular head: Medial half or two-thirds of front of clavicle. Sternocostal portion: Sternum and adjacent upper six costal cartilages.
Insertion
Upper shaft of humerus.
Action
Adducts and medially rotates the humerus.
Clavicular portion Flexes and medially rotates the shoulder joint, and horizontally adducts the humerus towards the opposite shoulder. Sternocostal portion: Obliquely adducts the humerus toward the opposite hip. The pectoralis major is one of the main climbing muscles, pulling the body up to the fixed arm.
Nerve
Nerve to upper fibres: Lateral pectoral nerve, C5, 6, 7.
Nerve to lower fibres: Lateral and medial pectoral nerves, 6, 7, 8, T1.
Basic functional movement
Clavicular portion: Brings arm forwards and across the body, as in applying deodorant to opposite armpit.
Sternal portion: Pulling down from above, such as a rope in bell ringing.
Sports that heavily utilise this muscle
Examples: Racket sports such as tennis. Golf. Baseball pitching. Gymnastics (rings and high bar). Judo. Wrestling.
Movements or injuries that may damage this muscle
Indian wrestling and other strength activities that force medial rotation and adduction can damage the insertion of this muscle.
Common problems when muscle is tight
Rounds the back and restricts expansion of chest, restricting lateral rotation and abduction of the shoulder.
Strengthening exercises
Bench press
Dumb-bell flyes
Vertical flyes ('pec deck' machine/ seated butterfly)
Pull-overs
Dips
Self stretches
Fix arm against a door frame. Step forward keeping your back lengthened, not arched. Raising or lowering arm will stretch different parts of the muscle.
2. Seratus anterior
Latin, serratus, notched; anterior, before.
The serratus anterior forms the medial wall of the axilla, along with the upper five ribs. It is a large muscle composed of a series of finger-like slips. The lower slips interdigitate with the origin of the external oblique.
Origin
Outer surfaces and superior borders of upper eight or nine ribs, and the fascia covering their intercostal spaces.
Insertion
Anterior (costal) surface of the medial border of scapula and inferior angle of scapula.
Action
Protracts scapula (pulls it forward on the ribs and holds it closely into the chest wall). Rotates scapula for abduction and flexion of arm.
Nerve
Long thoracic nerve, C5, 6, 7, 8.
Basic functional movement
PUshing or reaching forwards for something barely within reach.
Sports that heavily utilise this muscle
Examples: Boxing. Shot put.
Common problems when muscle is weak
'Winged scapula' (looking like an angel's wing), especially when holding a weight in front of the body. This is also a feature when the nerve to this muscle is damaged.
Strengthening exercises
Bench press (including inclined version)
Shoulder press
Press ups
Self stretch
In a seated position, hold seat of chair with one arm while turing in the opposite direction.
*Sorrel's note: This muscle is also known as the "super hero muscle" because it is always huge on super heros. The animators have the right idea, because one of the best ways to strengthen this muscle is by punching.
3. Rectus abdominus
Latin, rectum, straight; abdominis, belly/ stomach.
The rectus abdominis is divided into three or four bellies by tendinous muscles. These fibres converge centrally to form the linea alba. Situated anterior to the lower part of rectus abdominis is a frequently absent muscle called pyramidalis, which arises from the pubic crest and inserts into the linea alba. It tenses the linea alba, for reasons unknown. Associated with the six-pack muscles seen in conditioned athletes.
Origin
Pubic crest and symphysis (front of pubic bone).
Insertion
Xiphoid process (base of sternum). Fifth, sixth and seventh costal cartilages.
Action
Flexes lumbar spine. Depresses ribcage. Stabilizes the pelvis during walking.
Nerve
Ventral rami of thoracic nerves, T5-T12.
Basic functional movement
Example: Initiating getting out of a low chair.
Sports that heavily utilise this muscle
All sports.
Common problems when muscle is weak
Injury to lumbar spine, because abdominal muscle tone contributes to stability of lumbar spine.
Strengthening exercises
Sit-ups
Abdominal machine crunch (for upper fibres)
Reverse sit-up (for lower fibres_
Hanging leg raise
4. External (and internal) oblique
Latin, obliquus, diagonal, slanted.
The posterior fibres of the external oblique are usually overlapped by the latissimus dorsi, but in some cases there is a space between the two, known as the lumbar triangle, situated just above the iliac crest. The lumbar triangle is a weak point in the abdominal wall.
Origin
External oblique: Lower eight ribs.
Internal oblique: Iliac crest. Lateral two-thirds of inguinal ligament.
Thoracolumbar fascia (i.e. sheet of connective tissue in lower back).
Insertion
External oblique: Anterior half of iliac crest, and into an abdominal aponeurosis that terminates in the linea alba (a tendinous band extending downwards from the sternum).
Internal oblique: Bottom three or four ribs, and linea alba via aponeurosis.
Action
Compresses abdomen, helping to support the abdominal viscera against the pull of gravity. Contraction of one side alone bends the trunk laterally to that side and rotates in to the opposite side.
Nerve
External oblique: Ventral rami of thoracic nerves, T5-T12.
Internal oblique: Ventral rami of thoracic nerves, T7-T12, ilioinguinal and iliohypogastric nerves.
Basic functional movement
Example: Digging with a shovel, raking.
Sports that heavily utilise these muscles
External obliques: Examples: Gymnastics. Rowing. Rugby.
Internal obliques: Examples: Golf. Javelin. Pole vault.
Common problems when muscles are weak
Injury to lumbar spine, because abdominal muscle tone contributes to stability of lumbar spine.
Strengthening exercises
Twisting it-ups
Abdominal machine crunch (for upper fibers)
Hanging leg raise
Reverse trunk twist
Side bends
Self Stretches
Try to twist using trunk rather than shoulders or arms.
Perform this exercise slowly, thus avoiding the tendency to use momentum.
Avoid or take care if you have back problems; check with your health professional first.
5. Trapezius
Greek, trapezoides, table shaped.
The left and right trapezius, viewed as a whole, create a trapezium in shape, thus giving this muscle its name.
Origin
Base of skull (occipital bone). Spinous processes of seventh cervical (C7) and all thoracic vertebrae, (T1-T12).
Insertion
Lateral third of clavicle. Acromion process. Spine of scapula.
Action
Upper fibres: Pull the shoulder girdle up (elevation). Helps prevent depression of the shoulder girdle when a weight is carried on he shoulder or in the hand.
Middle fibres: Retract (adduct) scapula.
Lower fibres: Depress scapula, particularly against resistance, as when using the hands to get up from a chair.
Upper and lower fibres together: Rotate scapula, as in elevating the arm above the head.
Nerve
Accessory X1 nerve. Ventral ramus of cervical nerves, C2, 3, 4.
Basic functional movement
Example (upper and lower fibres working together): Painting a ceiling.
Sports that heavily utilise this muscle
Examples: Shot put. Boxing. Seated rowing.
Common problems when muscle is chronically tight/ shortened
Upper fibres: Neck pain or stiffness, headaches.
Strengthening exercises
Shoulder press (upper fibres)
Dips (middle/lower fibres)
Chin-ups (middle/lower fibres)
Lateral dumb-bell raises
Stretches
Turn head to right and tuck chin in. Pull left shoulder down. Pull head and left shoulder apart from each other.
6. Omohyoid
7. Sternocleidomastoideus
Greek, sternon, sternum; kleidos, key, clavicle; mastoid, breast-shaped, mastoid process.
This muscle is a long strap muscle with two heads. It is sometimes injured at birth, and may be partly replaced by fibrous tissue that contracts to produce a torticollis (wry neck).
Origin
Sternal head: Anterior surface of upper sternum. Clavicular head: Medial third of clavicle.
Insertion
Mastoid process of temporal bone (bony prominence just behind the ear).
Action
Contraction of both sides together: Flexes neck (draws head forward). Raises sternum, and consequently the ribs, during deep inhalation. Contraction of one side: Tilts the head towards the same side. Rotates head to face the opposite side (and also upward as it does so).
Nerve
Accessory X1 nerve; with sensory supply for proprioception from cervical nerves C2 and C3.
Basic functional movement
Examples: Turning head to look over your shoulder. Raising head from pillow.
Sports that heavily utilise this muscle
Examples: Swimming. Rugby scrummage. American football.
Movements or injuries that may damage this muscle
Extreme whiplash movements.
Common problems when muscle is chronically tight/ shortened
Headache and neck pain.
Strengthening exercise
Sit-ups
Self stretch
Turn head to right. Repeat on opposite side.
8. Subclavius
9. Pectoralis minor
Latin, pectoralis, chest; minor, small.
Pectoralis minor is a flat triangular muscle lying posterior to, and concealed by, pectoralis major. Along with pectoralis major, it forms the anterior wall of the axilla.
Origin
Outer surfaces of third, fourth and fifth ribs and fascia of the corresponding intercostal spaces.
Insertion
Corocoid process of scapula.
Action
Draws scapula forward and downward. Raises ribs during forced inspiration (i.e. it is an accessory muscle of inspiration, if the scapula is stabilized by the rhomboids and trapezius).
Nerve
Medial pectoral nerve with fibres from a communicating branch of the lateral pectoral nerve, C(6), 7, 8 T1.
Basic functional movement
Example: Pushing on arms of chair to stand up.
Sports that heavily utilise this muscle
Racket sports, e.g. tennis, badminton. Baseball pitching. Sprinting.
Common problems when muscle is chronically tight/ shortened
Restricts expansion of chest.
Strengthening exercises
Bench press
Dumb-bell flyes
Pull-overs
Self stretches
Fix arm against a door frame. Step forward keeping your back lengthened, not arched. Raising or lowering arm will stretch different parts of the muscle.
10. Internal intercostal & 11. External intercostal
Latin, inter, between; costal, rib.
The lower external intercostal muscles may blend with the fibres of external oblique, which overlap them, thus effectively forming one continuous sheet of muscle, with the external intercostal fibres seemingly stranded between the ribs. There are 11 external intercostals on each side of the ribcage.
Internal intercostal fibres lie deep to, and run obliquely across, the external intercostals. There are 11 internal intercostals on each side of the ribcage.
Origin
External intercostals: Lower border of a rib.
Internal intercostals: Upper border of a rib and costal cartilage.
Insertion
External intercostals: Upper border of rib below (fribres run obliquely forwards and downwards).
Internal intercostals: Lower border of rib above (fibres run obliquely forwards and upwards towards the costal cartilage).
Action
Muscles contract to stabilize the ribcage during various movements of the trunk. Prevents the intercostal space from bulging out or sucking in during respiration.
Nerve
The corresponding intercostal nerves.
Sports that heavily utilise these muscles
All very active sports.
Common problems when muscles are chronically tight/ shortened
Kyphosis (rounded back) and depressed chest.
Strengthening exercise
Twisting sit-ups
Self stretch
Avoid or take care if you have back problems; check with your health professional first.
12. Internal (and external) oblique
Latin, obliquus, diagonal, slanted.
The posterior fibres of the external oblique are usually overlapped by the latissimus dorsi, but in some cases there is a space between the two, known as the lumbar triangle, situated just above the iliac crest. The lumbar triangle is a weak point in the abdominal wall.
Origin
External oblique: Lower eight ribs.
Internal oblique: Iliac crest. Lateral two-thirds of inguinal ligament.
Thoracolumbar fascia (i.e. sheet of connective tissue in lower back).
Insertion
External oblique: Anterior half of iliac crest, and into an abdominal aponeurosis that terminates in the linea alba (a tendinous band extending downwards from the sternum).
Internal oblique: Bottom three or four ribs, and linea alba via aponeurosis.
Action
Compresses abdomen, helping to support the abdominal viscera against the pull of gravity. Contraction of one side alone bends the trunk laterally to that side and rotates in to the opposite side.
Nerve
External oblique: Ventral rami of thoracic nerves, T5-T12.
Internal oblique: Ventral rami of thoracic neres, T7-T12, ilioinguinal and iliohypogastric nerves.
Basic functional movement
Example: Digging with a shovel, raking.
Sports that heavily utilise these muscles
External obliques: Examples: Gymnastics. Rowing. Rugby.
Internal obliques: Examples: Golf. Javelin. Pole vault.
Common problems when muscles are weak
Injury to lumbar spine, because abdominal muscle tone contributes to stability of lumbar spine.
Strengthening exercises
Twisting it-ups
Abdominal machine crunch (for upper fibers)
Hanging leg raise
Reverse trunk twist
Side bends
Self Stretches
Try to twist using trunk rather than shoulders or arms.
Perform this exercise slowly, thus avoiding the tendency to use momentum.
Avoid or take care if you have back problems; check with your health professional first.
13. Linea alba
14. Bicep brachii
Latin, biceps, two-headed muscle; brahii, of the arm.
Biceps brachii operates over three joints. It has two tendinous heads at its origin and two tendinous insertions. Occasionally it has a third head, originating at the insertion of coracobrachialis. The short head forms part of the lateral wall of the axilla, along with coracograchialis and the humerus.
Origin
Short head: Tip of coracoid process of scapula.
Long head: Supraglenoid tubercle of scapula (area just above socket of shoulder joint).
Insertion
Radial tuberosity (on medial aspect of upper part of shaft of radius). Deep fascia (connective tissue) on medial aspect of forearm.
Action
Flexes elbow joint. Supinates forearm. (It has been described as the muscle that puts in the corkscrew and pulls out the cork). Weakly flexes arm at the shoulder joint.
Nerve
Musculocutaneous nerve, C5, 6.
Basic functional movement
Examples: Picking up an object. Bringing food to mouth.
Sports that heavily utilise this muscle
Examples: Boxing. Climbing. Canoeing. Rowing.
Movements or injuries that may damage this muscle
Lifting heavy objects too suddenly.
Common problems when muscle is chronically tight/ shortened
Flexion deformity of elbow (elbow cannot be fully straightened).
Strengthening exercises
Biceps curl
Chin-ups
Lat. pull downs
External (and internal) oblique
Latin, obliquus, diagonal, slanted.
The posterior fibres of the external oblique are usually overlapped by the latissimus dorsi, but in some cases there is a space between the two, known as the lumbar triangle, situated just above the iliac crest. The lumbar triangle is a weak point in the abdominal wall.
Origin
External oblique: Lower eight ribs.
Internal oblique: Iliac crest. Lateral two-thirds of inguinal ligament.
Thoracolumbar fascia (i.e. sheet of connective tissue in lower back).
Insertion
External oblique: Anterior half of iliac crest, and into an abdominal aponeurosis that terminates in the linea alba (a tendinous band extending downwards from the sternum).
Internal oblique: Bottom three or four ribs, and linea alba via aponeurosis.
Action
Compresses abdomen, helping to support the abdominal viscera against the pull of gravity. Contraction of one side alone bends the trunk laterally to that side and rotates in to the opposite side.
Nerve
External oblique: Ventral rami of thoracic nerves, T5-T12.
Internal oblique: Ventral rami of thoracic neres, T7-T12, ilioinguinal and iliohypogastric nerves.
Basic functional movement
Example: Digging with a shovel, raking.
Sports that heavily utilise these muscles
External obliques: Examples: Gymnastics. Rowing. Rugby.
Internal obliques: Examples: Golf. Javelin. Pole vault.
Common problems when muscles are weak
Injury to lumbar spine, because abdominal muscle tone contributes to stability of lumbar spine.
Strengthening exercises
Twisting it-ups
Abdominal machine crunch (for upper fibers)
Hanging leg raise
Reverse trunk twist
Side bends
Self Stretches
Try to twist using trunk rather than shoulders or arms.
Perform this exercise slowly, thus avoiding the tendency to use momentum.
Avoid or take care if you have back problems; check with your health professional first.
15. Triceps
Latin, triceps, three-headed muscle; brachii, of the arm.
The triceps originates from three heads and is the only muscle on the back of the arm.
Origin
Long head: Infraglenoid tubercle of the scapula (area just below socket of shoulder joint).
Lateral head: Upper half of posterior surface of shaft of humerus.
Medial head: Lower half of posterior surface of shaft of humerus.
Insertion
Olecranon process of the ulna (i.e. upper posterior area of ulna, near the point of the elbows).
Action
Extends (straightens) elbow joint. Long head can adduct the humerus and extend it from the flexed position. Stabilizes shoulder joint.
Nerve
Radial nerve, C6, 7, 8, T1.
Basic functional movement
Examples: Throwing objects. Pushing a door shut.
Sports that heavily utilise this muscle
Examples: Basketball or netball (shooting). Shot put. baseball (pitcher). Volleyball.
Movements or injuries that may damage this muscle
Throwing with excessive force.
Problems when muscle is chronically tight/ shortened
Extension deformity of elbow (elbow cannot be fully flexed); although not very common.
Strengthening exercises
Bench press
Push-ups
Dips
Triceps kick-back
Self Stretches
Keep your head up and elbow as far back as it comfortable, without hollowing your lower back.
Pull your hands towards each other. Most effective when the raised elbow is against the wall.
16. Extensor digitorum
17. Extensor digiti minimi (finger extensors)
Latin, extensor, to extend; digit, finger.
Origin
Common extensor tendon from lateral epicondyle of humerus (i.e. lower lateral end of humerus).
Insertion
Dorsal surfaces of all the phalanges of the four fingers.
Action
Extends the fingers. Assists abduction (divergence) of fingers away from the middle finger.
Nerve
Deep radial (posterior interosseous) nerve, 6, 7, 8.
Basic functional movement
Example: Letting go of objects held in the hand.
Movements or injuries that may damage this muscle
Overflexing the wrist resulting from falling onto the hand.
Common problems when muscle is chronically tight/ shortened/ overused
Tennis elbow (overuse tendonitis of common origin on lateral epicondyle of humerus).
Self stretch
Use one hand to gently lever wrist and fingers into extension.
18. Extensor carpi ulnaris (wrist extensors)
Latin, extensor, to extend.
Includes extensor carpi radialis longus and brevis, and extensor carpi ulnaris.
Origin
Common extensor tendon from lateral epicondyle of humerus (i.e. lower lateral end of humerus).
Insertion
Dorsal surface of metacarpal bones.
Action
Extends the wrist (extensor carpi radialis longus and brevis also abduct the wrist; extensor carpi ulnaris also adducts the wrist).
Nerve
Radialis longus and brevis: Radial nerve, C5, 6, 7, 8.
Extensor carpi ulnaris: Deep radial (posterior interosseous) nerve, C6, 7, 8.
Basic functional movement
Examples: Kneading dough. Typing. Cleaning windows.
Sports that heavily utilise these muscles
Examples: Back hand badminton. Golf. Motorcycle sports (throttle control).
Movements or injuries that may damage these muscles
Overflexing the wrist resulting from falling onto the hand.
Common problems when muscles are chronically tight / shortened/ overused
Tennis elbow (overuse tendonitis of common origin on lateral epicondyle of humerus).
Strengthening exercises
Wrist roller (palm down)
Reverse wrist curl
Most dumb-bell exercises
Self stretches
Use lower hand to gently lever the other wrist into flexion.
19. Flexor carpi ulnaris
Latin, flex, to bend.
Includes: flexor carpi radialis, palmaris longus, flexor carpi ulnaris.
Origin
Common flexor origin on the anterior aspect of the medial epicondyle of humerus (i.e. lower medial end of humerus).
Insertion
Carpals, metacarpals and phalanges.
Action
Flex the wrist (flexor carpi radialis also abducts the wrist; flexor carpi ulnaris also adducts the wrist).
Nerve
Flexor carpi radialis: Median nerve, C6, 7, 8.
Palmaris longus: Median nerve, C(6), 7, 8, T1.
Flexor carpi ulnaris: Ulnar nerve, C7, 8, T1.
Basic functional movement
Examples: Pulling rope in towards you. Wielding an axe or hammer.
Sports that heavily utilise these muscles
Examples: Sailing. Water skiing. Golf. Baseball. Cricket. Volleyball.
Movements or injuries that may damage these muscles
Overextending the wrist resulting from breaking a fall with the hand.
Common problems when muscles are chronically tight/ shortened/ overused
Golfer's elbow (overuse tendonitis of common flexor origin), carpal tunnel syndrome.
Strengthening exercises
Biceps curl
Wrist rolling (palm up)
Wrist curl
Self stretch
Use one hand to gently lever the other wrist into extension.
20. Anconeus
Introduction To Your 6 Pack
Six pack abs are the holy grail of physical fitness when you ask anyone about the male or female physic. The opposite sex will like us more and people of the same sex will be envious of our perfect torso. The truth is, and many won’t tell you this is that it’s actually not that hard to get those killer abs that you crave so much. Unfortunately for men it’s much easier if you’re female to get those perfect abs.
Although women are genetically wired to carry more fat than men, because there body is naturally preparing to nourish a baby, and obviously fat helps to achieve this. The healthy BMI of a women is between 18% and 20% where as it is 10% to 15% for men.
Women also store fat in different places to men. Women tend to store their fat in Hips, Buttocks and thighs. In fact gluteofemoral fat which is stored in the butt and tops of the legs is often thought to be a sign of strong metabolic health. This is why women find it easier to get to the end goal of an amazing six pack.
Unfortunately for men. The main place they store fat is around the abdomen area which is a bit of a bummer if your goal is killer abs. The dreaded beer belly has dashed many a dream of the glorious six pack, but not to worry. It may not be as easy to get abs if you are a man but it’s certainly not that difficult if you follow the right plan of attack. Plan Your 6 Pack Here For FREE
Firstly for both men and women you need to get down to that healthy BMI we spoke about earlier. Men at 10% to 15% and women at 18% and 20%. You might be very surprised when you get here to see that your abs are already pronounced so you have already fought half the battle. The way to get to this point is to eat a healthy, well balanced diet. You need to be sure you keep your body well-nourished with the essential vitamins and minerals while lowering your BMI at the same time.
Phase 1
What Foods To Eat
Protein drinks for example are a great way to lower your BMI while still making sure you stay healthy and always feel full. This is because protein has a high thermic effect which basically means it’s difficult for your body to digest. As a result of this you spend more energy breaking it down when digesting it. To work out how many grams of protein you would need each day, you need to multiply your weight in lbs by 0.8, so for a 170lb person that’s 136 grams of protein a day.
You should also try and opt for lean meats such as turkey and chicken breast without the skin. Tuna and salmon help to keep Omega3 up and also try and keep snacks to just nuts seeds and beans. To bulk out your diet you need to stick to healthy whole grain foods which help provide carbohydrates that keep you energised, fruit and vegetables provide you with vitamins, minerals and fibre, and plenty of dairy foods which give you calcium and natural protein.
Accelerate your weight loss…
To help speed up the weight loss and get to your BMI goal you need to carry out some aerobic activities. These help to speed up the burning of unwanted calories and together with eating healthily will speed up your advance towards your killer abs goal. If you are new to cardio you must start off gradually with something easy such as a brisk walk once per day.
As we are trying to target our abdominal muscles it’s a good idea to try using what is called a sweat belt or Ab belt to help target the stomach area. The reason these are so successful is because of what they target. See how to get hold of a free sweat belt here…
Sweat Belt/Ab Belt
The simple answer to this is yes. Let me explain how. Firstly let me dispel the myth that only overweight unhealthy people sweat. The actual truth is that the healthier you are the more likely you are to sweat. So if you are determined to get to your ideal BMI you better be prepared to sweat…a lot! The reason you sweat more as you get fitter is your body needs to work harder to keep you cool.
Another more direct reason that sweating helps you lose weight is detoxification, which is directly related to weight loss. As our bodies are overloaded with toxins from pollution, poor diet, pesticides, food additives, caffeine and alcohol. Any number of health problems can occur including headaches, bloating and fatigue, but the main problems are often weight gain and cellulite. Your body holds these toxins in your fat store so it keeps them away from the body’s main organs. As sweating is the best way to release these toxins from the body then it stands to reason that excessively sweating in any given area will release massive amounts of unwanted toxins, therefore breaking down that targeted fat store while also ridding the area off access water which further helps to loose inches. As these sweat belts are designed to be inconspicuous they are really easy to wear when going about your normal daily chores. This has the added benefit that whether you are just starting on your road to fitness, or you are already an avid fitness nut you can still benefit from wearing a sweat belt as it just enhances the exercise you are already doing.
Tracking Your Progress
It’s often a great idea to keep a close track of your body measurements. Some people may go a bit too far while losing weight and this can be dangerous. To keep track of your vital statistics you can use something like a body tracking software, this allows you to measure any part of the body that you want to track and plot it in the program. As you regularly plot your measurements you see a graph developing, this allows you to easily see if you’re losing weight too fast or it gives you a massive boost as you can see in black and white how great you are progressing.
This is what we call stage one of operation killer abs. As we have already said, in order for you to see your abs developing you first need to be able to see your abs. Getting your free sweat belt/Ab belt is the ideal way to do this.
Phase 2
Now you are getting nearer to your ideal BMI you can move on to stage 2. In this section we need to start targeting our core fitness. There is no point just working on your abs without working the whole core as this can lead to a back injury. The way we make sure this does not happen is to use something designed specifically for this job.
The Ab Wheel/Ab Roller
At first glance this can look like a very simple piece of equipment. But don’t let that fool you. The Ab roller is actually an amazing piece of home gym equipment, which when used as directed can build muscle in not only your Abs but also your back which helps to build the solid core that we need.
Balancing Your Core
The Ab Roller actually works a number of muscle groups when used correctly. The major muscles worked with the Ab Roller are obviously the abdominal muscles, including the rectus abdominis (the so-called six-pack), the underlying transversus abdominis and the oblique’s which are situated down your sides. What many people don’t realise is that your lat’s, triceps, hip flexors, pectorals, trapezius muscles and glutes also will be worked with the exercise wheel, not to the extent that your core does but as your body tries to balance these muscles are used. It’s a great idea to use the sweat belt in conjuction with the ab roller to maximise results. Get them both for free here.
This is where the differences are between using the ab wheel and doing more regular exercises such as crunches and sit ups. Don’t be fooled into thinking that because the exercise wheel hits many more muscle groups, you get less of a work out on your abs. This isn’t the case. The ab wheel will target your abs and your back while also hitting other smaller muscle groups which get a work out trying to keep your weight distributed correctly.
Ab Wheel Exercises
The traditional way of using the ab wheel is to grasp it in both hands and while on your knees you roll out forward until you reach the plank position. You then reverse that and roll back to your start position without arching your spine. If you want to target a different muscle like your oblique’s then you can roll out at a slight angle. When you have been using it for a while you might want to up the intensity by starting from a standing position. You reach down and grab the ab roller and roll forward from there all the way out to the plank position. You then reverse this as before till you are back in your original pose. Again please regulate the amount of sets you do when you first get started. You will be amazed at how good this works and over doing it at the start may slow down your overall progress.
Phase 3
Ok so now you are at your ideal BMI and you have been ripping it up for a month or so with the ab wheel. You can now see some great definition in your abs and your body generally. Don’t forget the ab wheel hits lots of muscle groups so you WILL notice that lots of your body is getting much more defined. Hopefully you have remembered to keep a track of your progress using the body tracker software we spoke of earlier. Not only will this keep you going when you sometimes feel like you don’t want to work out. Also when people start noticing how good your new killer abs look they WILL be coming over asking how you got so ripped in such a short space of time. Having the data to show people how quickly you progressed might just give them the incentive they need to start and do the same. What better way to top of your new body than helping someone else also achieve theirs.
But were not quite done yet…
Electronic Muscle Toning Belts/Electronic Ab Belts (EAB)
Let’s start by explaining what the electronic ab belt does. Many people think that the electronic ab belt does the same job as the normal sweat belt/ab belt we spoke of in phase1. This is definitely not the case. While the normal ab belt is designed to help you lose the fat around the waist by causing a sauna effect that is concentrated around your tummy while working out, and has the effect off stripping back the unwanted fat so you can actually see the abdominal muscle.
There are certain people that will tell you that the electronic ab belt will get you killer abs in no time by sitting on your backside while eating cakes and sweets. Unfortunately this is not the truth. In fact it’s rubbish. I won’t insult your intelligence by telling you there is a miracle way to acquire your killer abs without any hard work what so ever. There is however a free way to aquire an Electronic Ab Belt, see here.
What I can tell you is this, electronic ab belts do work for the purpose in which they were made. They were designed to target the muscles which other ab exercises find difficult to reach. Firstly the EAB will stimulate the rectus abdominis (6 pack) and the oblique’s on the side of the body which are notoriously hard to work and help shape your waist, it also hits your transversus abdominis which are deep within the abdomen. The EAB is is used to polish all the hard work that you have already put in when using your normal ab belt and working through the phases using your ab wheel as well.
The EAB is an entirely different piece of equipment. Although it is used to get to the same end goal as the normal ab belt, the EAB has been designed to reach certain muscles which are ordinarily really difficult to work and it does this by using electronic impulses. Although we can use the ab wheel to target the muscle groups in general the EAB can laser target the muscles what want to be most pronounced.
Benefits of Using Muscle Toning Belts
So what are the benefits of using the EAB? Firstly let me emphasize that the EAB is not a substitute for healthy eating and plenty of exercise. However in today’s modern world finding the time to fit everything in is very hard and unfortunately looking after our bodies often comes bottom of our to do lists. The EAB allows you to still work those abs while doing other more mundane tasks such as cooking or shopping. You can even wear it at work so you can still put some overtime in or wear it at home while watching television. So as you can see the EAB is a fantastic way for busy people to still commit to their health and fitness while keeping up with whatever today can throw at them.
I hope the above article has been of help to you in your quest for the perfect abs. Please remember that although using the equipment we have recommended will get you your perfect killer abs, it does require some hard work on your part too. Remember to keep track of your progress using the free body tracker software so you can remind yourself how well you are doing if you ever feel like giving up.
Most important: Please read and adhere to all the instructions that you receive with your ab equipment. Saving 5 minutes at the beginning and not reading instructions could end up with you getting hurt and having to postpone showing off your killer abs…
Want A Shortcut To Killer Abs?
We appreciate that you’re dying to get those killer Abs to show off to everyone. Or maybe you just arn’t happy with your body and would love to do something about it.
I suppose it is easier to get talking to that fit guy/girl at the gym if you already have a toned body. You already have something in common to break the ice.
It’s quite an expense for all this equipment maybe you just can’t afford it at the moment?
Maybe you just don’t have time to get those killer Abs you always wanted.
What if I told you there may be an answer!
What if I told you that you could get your hands on a Sweat Belt an Ab Roller and a Muscle Toning Belt and they were all FREE!
Do you think you could find the time to create perfect Abs if all this equipment was for nothing?
Great! I thought so.
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Source/Repost=>
abtekk.com/3-easy-step-to-killer-abs/ ** Abtekk ** abtekk.com/
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Core stability refers to a person's ability to stabilise their core. Stability, in this context, should be considered as an ability to control the position and movement of the core. Thus, if a person has greater core stability, they have a greater level of control over the position and movement of this area of their body. The body's core is frequently involved in aiding other movements of the body, such as the limbs, and it is considered that by improving core stability a person's ability to perform these other movements may also be improved i.e. core stability training may help improve someone's running ability. The bodies core region is sometimes referred to as the torso or the trunk, although there are some differences in the muscles identified as constituting them. The major muscles involved in core stability include the pelvic floor muscles, transversus abdominis, multifidus, internal and external obliques, rectus abdominis, erector spinae (sacrospinalis) especially the longissimus thoracis, and the diaphragm. The minor muscles involved include the latissimus dorsi, gluteus maximus, and trapezius. Notably, breathing, including the action of the diaphragm, can significantly influence the posture and movement of the core; this is especially apparent in regard to extreme ranges of inhalation and exhalation. On this basis, how a person is breathing may influence their ability to control their core.
Some researchers have argued that the generation of intra-abdominal pressure, caused by the activation of the core muscles and especially the transversus abdominis, may serve to lend support to the lumbar spine.
Typically, the core is associated with the body's center of gravity, which is over the region of the second sacral vertebrae groups and stability is associated with isometric or static strength. In addition, it is the lumbar spine that is primarily responsible for posture and stability thus providing the strength needed for the stability especially utilized in dynamic sports.
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Sadly, many chairs, even "ergonomic" ones, are designed such that your pelvis tilts backwards and throws your back into the backrest. Chairs that naturally tilt backwards further exacerbate this tendency. Granted, these chairs feel comfortable because they naturally force you to depend upon the support of the backrest, and that is relaxing. But such dependence upon support will lead to atrophy and deeper dependence.
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Class I Medical Device
Health Canada has certified SpinaliS chairs as a Class I Medical Device to prevent spinal problems and treat existing ones.
Abs and Back Workout
Work out while sitting on any of the SpinaliS chairs and performing your daily tasks at the office or home.
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SpinaliS Chairs will work out your core muscles for you. Just sit, do your thing and leave everything else up to SpinaliS. STRONG CORE MUSCLES = NO BACK PAIN
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Design of the SpinaliS Chairs is an eye candy – your customers will definitely notice them!
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1. Trapezius
Greek, trapezoides, table shaped.
The left and right trapezius, viewed as a whole, create a trapezium in shape, thus giving this muscle its name.
Origin
Base of skull (occipital bone). Spinous processes of seventh cervical (C7) and all thoracic vertebrae, (T1-T12).
Insertion
Lateral third of clavicle. Acromion process. Spine of scapula.
Action
Upper fibres: Pull the shoulder girdle up (elevation). Helps prevent depression of the shoulder girdle when a weight is carried on he shoulder or in the hand.
Middle fibres: Retract (adduct) scapula.
Lower fibres: Depress scapula, particularly against resistance, as when using the hands to get up from a chair.
Upper and lower fibres together: Rotate scapula, as in elevating the arm above the head.
Nerve
Accessory X1 nerve. Ventral ramus of cervical nerves, C2, 3, 4.
Basic functional movement
Example (upper and lower fibres working together): Painting a ceiling.
Sports that heavily utilise this muscle
Examples: Shot put. Boxing. Seated rowing.
Common problems when muscle is chronically tight/ shortened
Upper fibres: Neck pain or stiffness, headaches.
Strengthening exercises
Shoulder press (upper fibres)
Dips (middle/lower fibres)
Chin-ups (middle/lower fibres)
Lateral dumb-bell raises
Stretches
Turn head to right and tuck chin in. Pull left shoulder down. Pull head and left shoulder apart from each other.
2. Deltoid
Greek, delta, fourth letter of Greek alphabet (shaped like a triangle).
The deltoid is composed of three part; anterior, middle and posterior. Only the middle part is multipennate, probably because its mechanical disadvantage of abduction of the should joint requires extra strength.
Origin
Clavicle, acromion process and spine of scapula.
Insertion
Deltoid tuberosity, situated halfway down the lateral surface of the shaft of the humerus.
Action
Anterior fibres: Flex and medially rotate the humerus.
Middle fibres: Abduct the humerus at the shoulder joint (only after the movement has been initiated by supraspinatus).
Posterior fibres: Extend and laterally rotate the humerus.
Nerve
Axillary nerve, C5, 6, from the posterior cord of the brachial plexus.
Basic functional movement
Examples: Reaching for something out to the side, or raising the arm to wave.
Sports that heavily utilise this muscle
Examples: Javelin. Shot put. Racket sports. Wind surfing. Weight lifting.
Strengthening exercises
Lateral dumb-bell raises (middle fibres)
Upright (vertical) rowing (mainly middle fibres)
Bench press (anterior fibres)
Shoulder press (mainly middle fibres)
Vertical flyes ('pec' deck/seated butterfly) (anterior fibres)
Self stretches
Keep your arms and torso straight and slowly bend your knees. Vary by placing back of hands on table (mainly for the anterior fibres).
Raise one arm to shoulder height. Flex the arm across to the other shoulder. Hold the raised elbow with the opposite hand and pull the elbow backward.
3. Latissimus Dorsi
Latin, latissimus, widest; dorsi, of the back.
Along with subscapularis and teres major, the latissimus dorsi forms the posterior wall of the axilla.
Origin
A broad sheet of tendon which is attached to the spinous processes of lower six thoracic vertebrae and all the lumbar and sacral vertebrae, (T7-S5). Posterior part of iliac crest. Lower three or four ribs. Inferior angle of the scapula.
Insertion
Twists to insert into the intertubercular sulcus (bicipital groove) of humerus, just below the shoulder joint.
Action
Extends the flexed arm. Adducts and medially rotates the humerus (i.e. draws the arm back and inwards towards the body).
It is one of the chief climbing muscles, since it pulls the shoulders downwards and backwards, and pulls the trunk up to the fixed arms (also active in crawl swimming stroke). Assists in forced inspiration, by raising the lower ribs.
Nerve
Thoracodorsal nerve, C6, 8, from the posterior cord fo the brachial plexus.
Basic functional movement
Example: Pushing on arms of chair to stand up.
Sports that heavily utilise this muscle
Examples: Climbing. Gymnastics (rings, parallel bars). Swimming. Rowing.
Strengthening exercises
Chin-ups (esp. wide grip)
Lat. pull-downs
Pull-overs
Seated rowing
Pulley shoulder adduction
Self stretches
Pull right elbow to left with left hand. Side bending to left will increase stretch.
From kneeling on all fours, sit back onto your ankles, keeping your hands fixed. Relax into it and hold for up to two minutes.
4. Triceps
Latin, triceps, three-headed muscle; brachii, of the arm.
The triceps originates from three heads and is the only muscle on the back of the arm.
Origin
Long head: Infraglenoid tubercle of the scapula (area just below socket of shoulder joint).
Lateral head: Upper half of posterior surface of shaft of humerus.
Medial head: Lower half of posterior surface of shaft of humerus.
Insertion
Olecranon process of the ulna (i.e. upper posterior area of ulna, near the point of the elbows).
Action
Extends (straightens) elbow joint. Long head can adduct the humerus and extend it from the flexed position. Stabilizes shoulder joint.
Nerve
Radial nerve, C6, 7, 8, T1.
Basic functional movement
Examples: Throwing objects. Pushing a door shut.
Sports that heavily utilise this muscle
Examples: Basketball or netball (shooting). Shot put. baseball (pitcher). Volleyball.
Movements or injuries that may damage this muscle
Throwing with excessive force.
Problems when muscle is chronically tight/ shortened
Extension deformity of elbow (elbow cannot be fully flexed); although not very common.
Strengthening exercises
Bench press
Push-ups
Dips
Triceps kick-back
Self Stretches
Keep your head up and elbow as far back as it comfortable, without hollowing your lower back.
Pull your hands towards each other. Most effective when the raised elbow is against the wall.
5. Anconeus
6. External (and internal) oblique
Latin, obliquus, diagonal, slanted.
The posterior fibres of the external oblique are usually overlapped by the Latissimus dorsi, but in some cases there is a space between the two, known as the lumbar triangle, situated just above the iliac crest. The lumbar triangle is a weak point in the abdominal wall.
Origin
External oblique: Lower eight ribs.
Internal oblique: Iliac crest. Lateral two-thirds of inguinal ligament.
Thoracolumbar fascia (i.e. sheet of connective tissue in lower back).
Insertion
External oblique: Anterior half of iliac crest, and into an abdominal aponeurosis that terminates in the linea alba (a tendinous band extending downwards from the sternum).
Internal oblique: Bottom three or four ribs, and linea alba via aponeurosis.
Action
Compresses abdomen, helping to support the abdominal viscera against the pull of gravity. Contraction of one side alone bends the trunk laterally to that side and rotates in to the opposite side.
Nerve
External oblique: Ventral rami of thoracic nerves, T5-T12.
Internal oblique: Ventral rami of thoracic nerves, T7-T12, ilioinguinal and iliohypogastric nerves.
Basic functional movement
Example: Digging with a shovel, raking.
Sports that heavily utilise these muscles
External obliques: Examples: Gymnastics. Rowing. Rugby.
Internal obliques: Examples: Golf. Javelin. Pole vault.
Common problems when muscles are weak
Injury to lumbar spine, because abdominal muscle tone contributes to stability of lumbar spine.
Strengthening exercises
Twisting it-ups
Abdominal machine crunch (for upper fibers)
Hanging leg raise
Reverse trunk twist
Side bends
Self Stretches
Try to twist using trunk rather than shoulders or arms.
Perform this exercise slowly, thus avoiding the tendency to use momentum.
Avoid or take care if you have back problems; check with your health professional first.
7. Supraspinatus
Latin, supra, above; spinatus, spine of the scapula.
A member of the rotator cuff, which comprise: supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor, and subscapularis. The rotator cuff helps hold the head of the humerus in contact with the glenoid cavity (socket of shoulder joint) of the scapula during movements of the shoulder, thus helping to prevent dislocation of the joint.
Origin
Supraspinous fossa of scapula (hollow above the spine of the scapula).
Insertion
Greater tubercle at the top fo the humerus. Capsule of shoulder joint.
Action
Initiates the process of abduction at the shoulder joint, so that the deltoid can take over at the later stages of abduction.
Nerve
Suprascapular nerve, C4, 5, 6, from the upper trunk of the brachial plexus.
Basic functional movement
Example: Holding shopping bag away from side of body.
Sports that heavily utilise his muscle
Examples: Baseball. Golf. Racket sports.
Movements or injuries that may damage this muscle
Dislocation of the shoulder joint.
Strengthening exercises
Lateral dumb-bell raises
Seated rowing
Self Stretch
Raise one arm to shoulder height. Flex the arm across to the other shoulder. Hold the raised elbow with the opposite hand and pull the elbow backward.
8. Rhomboid major and minor
Greek, rhomb, a parallelogram with oblique angles and only the opposite sides equal; minor, small; major, large.
Rhomboideus major runs parallel to, and is often continuous with, rhomboideus minor.
Origin
Spinous processes of the seventh cervical and upper five thoracic vertebrae, (C7-T1).
Insertion
Medial (vertebral) border of scapula.
Action
Retracts (adducts) scapula. Stabilizes scapula. Slightly assists in outer range of adduction of arm (i.e. from arm overhead to arm at shoulder level).
Nerve
Dorsal scapular nerve, C4, 5.
Basic functional movement
Pulling something towards you, such as opening a drawer.
Sports that heavily utilise these muscles
Examples: Archery. Seated rowing. Wind surfing. racket sports.
Common problems when muscles are tight or overstretched
Tight: Soreness or aching between shoulder blades.
Overstretched: Rounded shoulders are both symptomatic of, and exacerbated by, overstretched rhomboids (which tend to get overstretched rather than become too tight).
Strengthening exercises
Seated rowing
Upright (vertical) rowing
Lat. pull downs
Pulley shoulder adduction
10. Teres minor
Latin, teres, rounded, finely shaped; minor, small.
A member of the rotator cuff, which comprise: supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor, and subscapularis. The rotator cuff helps hold the head of the humerus in contact with the glenoid cavity (socket of shoulder joint) of the scapula during movements of the shoulder, thus helping to prevent dislocation of the joint.
Origin
Upper two-thirds of the lateral edge of the dorsal surface of scapula.
Insertion
Back of greater tubercle of humerus. Capsule of shoulder joint.
Action
As a rotator cuff, helps prevent upward dislocation of the shoulder joint. Laterally rotates humerus. Weakly adducts humerus.
Nerve
Axillary nerve, C5, 6, from the posterior cord of the brachial plexus.
Basic functional movement
Example: Brushing back of hair.
Sports that heavily utilise this muscle
Example: Back hand racket sports.
Movements or injuries that may damage this muscle
Dislocation of the shoulder joint.
Strengthening exercise
Seated rowing (limited effect)
11. Teres major
Latin, teres, rounded, finely shaped; major, large.
The teres major, along with the tendon of latissimus dorsi, which passes around it, and the subscapularis, forms the posterior fold of the axilla.
Origin
Lower third of the posterior surface of the lateral border of the scapula.
Insertion
Medial lip of intertubercular sulcus (bicipital groove) of humerus (i.e. back of upper shaft of humerus).
Action
Adducts humerus. Medially rotates humerus. Extends humerus from the flexed position.
Nerve
Lower subscapular nerve, C5, 6, 7, from the posterior cord of the brachial plexus.
Basic functional movement
Example: Reaching into your back pocket.
Sports that heavily utilise this muscle
Examples: Rowing. Cross-country skiing.
Movements or injuries that may damage this muscle
Sharply jerking the arm forwards, as in throwing a stone to skim it across a lake.
Strengthening exercises
Seated rowing
Pull-overs
PUlley shoulder adduction
Self stretches
Keep your arms and legs straight, flex the hips and flatten your back.
Raise one arm to shoulder height. Flex the arm across to the other shoulder. Hold the raised elbow with the opposite hand and pull the elbow backward.
12. External (and internal) intercostals
Latin, inter, between; costal, rib.
The lower external intercostal muscles may blend with the fibres of external oblique, which overlap them, thus effectively forming one continuous sheet of muscle, with the external intercostal fibres seemingly stranded between the ribs. There are 11 external intercostals on each side of the ribcage.
Internal intercostal fibres lie deep to, and run obliquely across, the external intercostals. There are 11 internal intercostals on each side of the ribcage.
Origin
External intercostals: Lower border of a rib.
Internal intercostals: Upper border of a rib and costal cartilage.
Insertion
External intercostals: Upper border of rib below (fibres run obliquely forwards and downwards).
Internal intercostals: Lower border of rib above (fibres run obliquely forwards and upwards towards the costal cartilage).
Action
Muscles contract to stabilize the ribcage during various movements of the trunk. Prevents the intercostal space from bulging out or sucking in during respiration.
Nerve
The corresponding intercostal nerves.
Sports that heavily utilise these muscles
All very active sports.
Common problems when muscles are chronically tight/ shortened
Kyphosis (rounded back) and depressed chest.
Strengthening exercise
Twisting sit-ups
Self stretch
Avoid or take care if you have back problems; check with your health professional first.
13. Spinalis thoracis
14. Longissimus thoracis} Erector Spinae (Sacrospinalis)
15. Iliocostalis thoracis
Latin, sacrum, sacred; spinalis, spinal.
The erector spinae, also called sacrospinalis, comprises three sets of muscles organized in parallel columns. From lateral to medial, they are: iliocostalis, longissimus and spinalis.
Origin
Slips of muscle arising from the sacrum. Iliac crest. Spinous and transverse processes of vertebrae. Ribs.
Insertion
Ribs. Transverse and spinous processes of vertebrae. Occipital bone.
Action
Extends and laterally flexes vertebral column (i.e. bending backward and sideways). Helps maintain correct curvature of spine in the erect and sitting positions. Steadies the vertebral column on the pelvis during walking.
Nerve
Dorsal rami of cervical, thoracic and lumbar spinal nerves.
Basic functional movement
Keeps back straight (with correct curvatures). Therefore maintains posture.
Sports that heavily utilise these muscles
Examples: All sports, especially swimming, gymnastics, and wrestling.
Movements or injuries that may damage these muscles
Lifting without bending the knees or keeping the back erect, or holding the object too far in front of the body.
Strengthening exercises
Back extension (back raise)
Lat. pull-downs
Squats
Side bends
Self stretches
Move towel up back with each set of stretching.
Pull knees into your chest and up towards your shoulders.
16. Internal oblique abdominal (see 6.)
this is part 2 of the physiotherapy project with sara
The m. trapezius is a large superficial muscle that extends longitudinally from the occipital bone to the lower thoracic vertebrae and laterally to the spine of the scapula (shoulder blade). Its functions are to move the scapulae and support the arm.
origin:
external occipital protuberance, nuchal ligament, medial superior nuchal line, spinous processes of vertebrae C7-T12
insertion:
lateral third of clavicle, acromion process, and spine of scapula
action:
rotation, retraction, elevation, and depression of scapula
It is possible to feel the muscles of the superior trapezius become active by holding a weight in one hand in front of the body and, with the other hand, touching the area between the shoulder and the neck.
'Muscles du Pharynx. Plan Lateral.' (Muscles of the Human Pharynx. Side view.) This plate shows the muscles of the pharynx of an adult. Clavicle, Buccinator muscle, esophagus, splenius capitis, trapezius, epiglottis etc.
Urdhva Vrikshasana (IPA: [uːrd̪ʱʋɐʋr̩kʂɑːsɐnɐ]; Sanskrit: ऊर्ध्व वृक्षासन: Ūrdhva Vṛkṣāsana) is an asana. An English translation for this asana is "Upward Tree Position". In Ashtanga Yoga it is the first asana of Surya Namaskara. In some instances this asana may also be called Tadasana, depending on the practitioner's yoga style and lineage.
This asana or its variations may also be known a Urdhva Hastasana : Ūrdhva Hāstāsana; Sanskrit: ऊर्ध्व हास्तासन; IPA: [uːrdʰʋɐ hɐːstɐːsɐna]), meaning "Upward Hands Pose".Etymology: This compound noun phrase comes from Sanskrit: urdhva (Sanskrit: ऊर्ध्व, Sanskrit: ūrdhva) meaning "up, upwards"; vriksha (Sanskrit: वृक्ष, Sanskrit: vṛkṣa) meaning "tree, especially with visible blossoms or fruits"; and asana (Sanskrit: आसन, Sanskrit: Āsana) meaning "pose". This asana or variations of it may also be called Ūrdhva Hāstāsana. From Sanskrit: urdhva (Sanskrit: ऊर्ध्व, Sanskrit: ūrdhva) meaning "up, upwards";[6] hasta (Sanskrit: , Sanskrit: hāsta) meaning "formed with the hands"; asana (Sanskrit: आसन, Sanskrit: Āsana) meaning "pose". In some instances this asana may also be called Tadasana (meaning "mountain pose"), depending on the practitioner's yoga style and lineage.Description; Samasthitiḥ serves as a base for Ūrdhva Vṛkṣāsana. The legs remain unchanged, however the arms and gaze are upward. Drishti;In yoga, the dṛṣṭi the location of the gaze.The dṛṣṭi for Ūrdhva Vṛkṣāsana is the Aṅguṣṭhamadhye dṛṣṭi Bandhas
Mūla Bandha and Uḍḍiyāna Bandha are active. As the head is raised, the Jālandhara bandha is not engaged.Variations; In some instances this asana may also be called Tadasana (meaning "mountain pose"), depending on the practitioner's yoga style and lineage. The vanilla Vrikshasana has many similarities as well. Urdhva Hastasana
Man performing Ūrdhva Hāstāsana from the front Ūrdhva Hāstāsana is a similar asana wherein the hands are not touching and the gaze is forward. It can also be preformed with the thumbs interlocked. Props A belt can be used to improve the stretch. A loop is made that is around shoulder width (or slightly less) and the arms are raised to press outward on the belt. The pressure is initiated with the arms at shoulder height, then the shoulders are "softened" and brought downward, back into position, before raising the arms up above the head to the full asana. This is usually performed with the hands apart, as the pressure exerted by the arms is outward. This technique can be especially helpful for raised arm inversions. Yoga styles and context In some styles of yoga leaning backward may be considered a variation of Ūrdhva Vṛkṣāsana and be substituted for it in Surya Namaskara vinyasas. Surya Namaskara In Surya Namaskara, Ūrdhva Vṛkṣāsana is an important part of many styles of yoga, particularly Ashtanga Yoga, and is the first vinyasa of the series (following the starting asana, samasthitih). Ashtanga Yog ;In Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga, Ūrdhva Vṛkṣāsana appears as part of full vinyasas throughout the practice.
Vinyasa Krama Yoga In Vinyasa Krama Yoga, Tāḍāsana is performed on the toes with the arms raised, and is similar to Ūrdhva Vṛkṣāsana, except that the gaze is not raised, and the hands interlock. Various standing vinyasas from Vinyasa Krama Yoga also include flat footed standing position with the arms raised and fingers interlocked (Urdhva Baddhanguliyasana. Key aspects As with most asanas, when entering into Ūrdhva Vṛkṣāsana, distal body parts are best arranged first, progressively adjusting in-wards and putting proximal body parts in place last. Given that Ūrdhva Vṛkṣāsana uses Samasthitiḥ as its base, some key aspects are similar, while others differ. Key aspects in common with Samasthitiḥ Feet are together or if apart, then the heels and big toes are in one line pointing straight forward.Feet are stretched on the floor, including metatarsals and each individual toe. Feet "ground" primarily through the three points which make up the foot's three arches: the calcaneal tuberosity (heel), the base of the first metatarsal (the big toe "knuckle"), and the base of the fifth metatarsal (little toe "knuckle"). The weight is not placed on the inside edge of the feet (which would negatively affect posture throughout the body. Knees are tightened (in effect, the knee caps pulled up) and facing forward. Keeping the balls of the feet grounded, and activating muscles to separate the soles of the feet (which are not allowed to move because of friction with the mat), may help internally rotate the thighs, turn the femurs inward and keep the kneecaps facing forward. Hips and buttocks (upper thigh muscles) are contracted (upwards). Weight is distributed evenly between heels and toes, with the pelvis centered and body in-line. The pelvis is centered when the tendons which connect the sartorius and rectus femoris muscles to the pelvis is half way between being pulled tight, and relaxed. Weight is distributed evenly between the two hips (equally between the two legs/feet), making the left and right hips level with each other. Pelvis exhibits neutral tilt (neither tilted forward nor backwards). Usually this means the pubic symphysis and anterior superior iliac spine (ASIS) are in one vertical plane, neither in front of the other. There is a moderate inward curve the lower back due to the neutral pelvic tilt.
The chest is broad. The shoulders are rolled back (with the head of the humerus centered in the joint), and shoulder blades pulled down the back and inwards (not "winging, but not "pinched" together).The shoulders may be "looped" (lifted slightly, then brought back and down) to achieve this. Key aspects for asanas with arms raised Mūla Bandha and Uḍḍiyāna Bandha are active, but Jālandhara bandha is not. The gaze is toward the Aṅguṣṭhamadhye dṛṣṭi (thumbs). An additional downward engagement and external rotation of the shoulders (anatomically external) is maintained from before the initial arm raise throughout the asana (to prevent a rotator cuff injury).This is accomplished by "keeping the armpits down, while the arms rise", and "broadening the shoulder blades". The hands are rotated thumbs to the outside before raising the arms to prevent shoulder injury. Although looking upward, the head is not "thrown back" allowing the neck to collapse, but rather the chin is raised and neck supported and extended. Effects Given that Ūrdhva Vṛkṣāsana uses Samasthitiḥ as its base, some effects are similar. For instance: The asana strengthens the abdomen and the legs. It may help relieve sciatica and reduce flat feet. It helps plantar fasciitis and heel spurs by improving the strength of deeper foot muscles which support your foot, and reducing the load on the less suited plantar fascia. Given the upward position of the arms and neck, there are additional effects: The thoracic cavity and rib structures including the intercostal muscles are stretched and the thoracic cavity expanded increasing lung capacity. Raising the arms in standing asanas like Ūrdhva Vṛkṣāsana and its variations “increases the heat created by the asanas, and is beneficial for [reducing excess] kapha
Raising the arms makes diaphragmatic breathing come more naturally, restricting thoracic significantly, and abdominal breathing only slightly. Cautions;Given that Ūrdhva Vṛkṣāsana uses Samasthitiḥ as its base, some cautions are similar including: Due to the effects of standing, prolonged practice of a standing asana like Ūrdhva Vṛkṣāsana should be done with caution by those who suffer from headaches, insomnia, or low blood pressure.
It is advised to maintain a degree of muscle tension in this asana. Moderate tension in the thighs and hips can help develop positive habits and can increase the musculature in those areas which can help prevent injury. Additionally maintaining a degree of tension requires awareness, which can help prevent injury itself. This habit can be beneficial throughout yoga practice. Hyper extension of the knee can compresses the knee joint and can strain the medial meniscus, causing knee problems. Since the feet serve as a foundation for the rest of the body in this and other standing asanas, the position of the feet is of high importance. One change in the position of your feet affects posture throughout your body.
Scapulo-humeral rhythm of arm raising Given the commonality of raising the arms, the complexity of the motion may be overlooked. In fact, the scapulo-humeral rhythm of the motion is important to avoid a repetitive motion induced shoulder injury. If the humerus is in the neutral position (unrotated) when the supraspinatus muscle contracts, the supraspinatus tendon can be sandwiched between the acromion (bone) and greater tubricle of the humerus (bone) leading to a common rotator cuff injury: an inflamed, frayed, or torn supraspinatus tendon. Prevention is simply a matter of: Initiating the movement with an external rotation of the arm (thumb moving outward). This movement is preformed primarily by the infraspinatus and teres minor. "Cinching down" the humerus to create space between the acromion and humerus. The cinching action can be aided by the subscapularis muscle, though its relaxation is required to accomplish the arms initial outward rotation.
While the critical time to initiation these forces is before the arm raise begins, both the rotation and the downward engagement are engaged for the duration of the arm raise.
Spinal extension
The role of the latimus dorsi is subtle, as "tight latissimus dorsi can pull the spine into too much of a lumbar curve". Further, "if the latissimus dorsi are used to do the spinal extension , they will interfere with the lifting and lateral rotation of the arms".
Anatomy Thought there are differences between individuals, this is a general anatomical description of the body in Ūrdhva Vṛkṣāsana. As an upright standing asana:
The curves of the lumbar, thoracic, and cervical exhibit mild axial extension.
The erector spinae and quadratus lumborum lift and straighten the spine. A downward release exists in the following parts of the body: the shoulder blades (supported by the rib cage), the tailbone, and in the foot at the heel (Calcaneus), and the first and fifth metatarsals (the three of which serve as primary contact points with the ground). The shoulders should not be thrown back, but simply relaxed neutrally. Given that Ūrdhva Vṛkṣāsana uses Samasthitiḥ as its base, some anatomy points are similar. The following apply primarily to the lower portion of the body being similar in position in Samasthitiḥ:
The ankle and hip joints are neutral, halfway between flexion and extension, This means the feet are flat and parallel. (in a distal position). The knees are straight, but not hyper-extended. Further, the kneecaps are lifted by the quadriceps femoris and the ischial tuberosites maintain tension via the hamstrings. The abductor muscles hold the thighs together. Activating the tensor fasciae latae and gluteus medius will help internally rotate the thighs, turn the femurs inward and keep the kneecaps facing forward.
The following points through the body are lifted upward: the arches of the feet, the pelvic floor, the lower abdomen, the rib cage, cervical spine, and the top of the head. In this position, akin to standing "smartly", the action of standing erect should do most of the lifting without much special effort from the subject. Anatomical states for asanas with arms raised above the head. The following anatomical description applies to asanas which have the arms raised above the head: The head is tilted back on the C1 vertebrae, allowing the chin to move upwards, but keeping the neck supported and lengthened. This both lengthens and/or works the following anterior neck muscles: rectus capitis, longus capitis, longus colli, verticalis, scalenes (worked [eccentrically]). The spine is extended working the spinal extensors and rectus abdominis (eccentrically), but ideally not the latissimus dorsi. The rectus abdominis is simultaneously lengthened in this action, along with the external obliques and latissimus dorsi. The shoulder flexion of the arm raise engages the serratus anterior, anterior and middle deltoids, upper trapezius, infraspinatus (used to externally rotate the arms), and pectoralis major and minor.The tricepts also play a hand in rotating the scapula. The middle trapezius and rhomboids engage to open the chest and keep the shoulders wide and back. The lower trapezius also brings the shoulders downward, away from the ears. The tricepts extend the elbows. Since the extensors in the arms are being worked while flexors are only playing their role as antagonists, the antagonists often limit the extensors; for instance, the practitioner may be unable to fully extend the elbow joint, or raise the arms fully. As the hands are raised over the head, the thoracic cavity and rib structures including the intercostal muscles are stretched and the thoracic cavity expanded increasing lung capacity. A slight back bend could be included to accentuate the effect and stretch the front of the body, chest and ribs more, and in fact some styles of yoga include this aspect in their Ūrdhva Vṛkṣāsana.
Laura's strength is most evident when she boulders and does yoga. The way her trapezius muscles meet with her neck turns me on. This particular day we were doing yoga for fun on the beach of Yalapa. I borrowed Laura's Holga to capture her strength and beauty. Yalapa, Nyarit, MEXICO
Okay Jules. I posted it. This is what you look like when they finally take a tube out of your nose after you've spent an entire night barfing and jerking a wound about violently and then quit the painkillers, figuring the pain couldn't possibly be any worse than how much the barfing hurt you, and then being wrong. Got stitches around back too. (Duke University Medical Center, April 1995)
Okay, at 10ch's request, The Story: this is the result of one very poorly executed karate strike at full impact. Because of a scheduling snafu, the rec center doublebooked our belt test and I wound up going first in a room that was too cold. I didn't get a chance to warm up because we were too busy trying to find a room and, well, my soft tissue was too cold to do what I asked it to do but my bone kept going.
The impact shoved my arm bone through my rotator cuff and pretty much tore everything around it loose—snapping my bicep & tricep tendons, ripping my trapezius to shreds, etc.etc painful etc. Let's just say that the MRI report was sobering. It took 6 months of daily therapy to lift my arm off my body and the thing still won't go backwards or wrap around a squareback guitar for very long or let me lift a Miata ragtop from inside the car. Yuck.
This ended my karate, basketball, whitewater kayaking, and racquetball days in one fell swoop.
And GOD my hair was black ten years ago! There's a reason MHa used to sing "Black WAS the Color of My True Love's Hair."
Oh and about those red welts. This is also the day that I discovered that I am allergic to surgical tape.
Atlas of Human Anatomy
Translated by:
Ronald A. Bergman, PhD
Professor Emeritus
Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology
Adel K. Afifi, MD, MS
Professor
Departments of Pediatrics, Anatomy and Cell Biology, and Neurology
This atlas is translated from the original atlas entitled "Handbuch der Anatomie des Menschen" which was published in 1841 in Leipzig, Germany. The author of this atlas was Professor Dr. Carl Ernest Bock, who lived from 1809-1874.
when it comes to bent over rowing, it works the latissimus dorsi, the middle and lower trapezius, the rhomboids, and the posterior deltoids. NSP Nutrition has a product to help you achieve your goals, guaranteed. For more information, you can visit our website.
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'Sujet complet de Myologie vu par le Plan Posterieur'. (Muscles of an adult male seen from the back.) This plate shows the muscles of a male adult. Deltoid, trapezius, levator, scapulae, rhomboids, triceps brachii, gluteus maximus, biceps, femoris, peroneus brevis, soleus, gastrocnemius etc.
Jocelyn Olivier
The NeuroMuscular Reprogramming Network
Scoliosis Priority Protocols
Step 1. Torsion Imbalances Rt/Left at Hips and Lumbar
Test QL side to side with client supine and knees and hips flexed.
Test QL side to side with client prone and knees bent and hips neutral.
Find the top of QL weak in the open position on the side that lacks lordosis. Check for weak psoas on that side also.
Release the QL on the opposite side while engaging the QL that tested weak. Client learns to breathe and relax the side of the back that normally overworks, and, with this “hold/release” technique to re-engage the side that lacks lumbar curve and is not functioning properly.
Step 2. Right/Left Imbalances and Reactives along Lateral lines.
First check Quadratus Lumborum side to side in all reciprocal coordination positions.
Then Bottom of QL on short side to top of QL on over developed side (lacking lumber lordosis).
Lats on overdeveloped side of thorax will be weak, reactive to same side QL and/or upper trapezius.
Step 3. Sequencing Back Extensors
Disparities in development are clearly seen between 2 sides of erector spinae.
Test right to left side extensors—Release overdeveloped thoracic segment.
Re-do, refine test for superior segments : 1 Cervical 2 Thoracic
Test top to bottom for each side.
Test bottom to top. Then check diagonals.
Step 4. Torsion Imbalances Rt/Left at Shoulders:
All upper thoracic rotators (trapezius, rhomboids, latissimus dorsi and deep rotators and multifidi) will be weak on the side opposite the short side of the thorax, reactive to short side thoracic extensors.
Using arms braced together as a rudder to turn the thorax, notice the imbalances in twisting through the thoracic spine.
Step 5. Right/Left lateral flexion at neck, thorax and waist:
Next: Check Lateral Bending of thorax only (“the candle”)
Check Rt/Lt lateral cervical flexion for reactives.
Check cervicals to thorax and lumbar lateral flexion also.
Step 6. Right/left rotational imbalances in the neck
Check Rt/Lt rotation. Release the side that tests strong.
Check: scalenes to rotators and extensors. Release scalenes.
Check Upper thoracic extensors to rotation of the neck. Release thoracic extensors.
Step 4. Further explorations
All the extensor segments need to be checked with respect to the rotators. It will be found that some of the rotators are inhibiting the extensors and possibly the other way as well. (Eg., left rotation of upper thorax in preferred direction will inhibit right thoracic extension of the opposite side.
Other considerations with respect to the psoas:
Because the psoas has been disabled for so long it is predictable that thoracic flexion will be accomplished by the pec minor and internal obliques which pull the thorax forward thus inhibiting the mid and lower trapezius of the opposite side, creating the hump back look on one side of the thorax with a widening of the depth of the chest. Release right internal Obliques and left QL, along with the posterior inferior serratus.
Hip flexion on the side with the weak psoas will be compensated by tight rectus femoris creating the anterior tilt to pelvis on the same side and chronic pain in the same Sacro Iliac Joint. Test hip flexion to lateral flexion (QL to Psoas) on the flat side of the lumbar.
Once the psoas is firing reliably with respect to the QL it will be necessary to begin looking at the psoas function with the spine laterally flexed to one side or the other. In this “side bending” position, you may find the psoas once again inhibited.
Additional considerations
Thoracic Rotational stabilization while sitting
Problem: Right thorax weak rotationally.
Observation: thorax can’t rotate right without support from right inner thigh.
Therefore...
Test right upper thorax rotation to:
→Right adductors and flexors.
→Left post inf. Serratus
→Left Lower Trapezius and Latissimus Dorsi
Before right turning is functional and reliable these muscles will need to be released and re-programmed.
This is the first of 17 photos taken during my early-evening bodybuilding workout of Wednesday, 14 June 2023. I'm posting all 17 photos, which together form a photo session titled "Wednesday Bodybuilding Workout in Athlio Sky Blue Tights".
Shoulder Shrugs, often simply called Shrugs, primarily work the Deltoids, as well as the Trapezius and Forearms muscles.
As you can see from this and several of these photos, I'm also wearing a white sheer nylon athletic undershirt (made by Ron Serfass of BuffedBod.com), white New Balance athletic shoes, white nylon sheer socks, ... as well as a white mesh thong (made by Daddy Underwear) under my tights. More about that thong later, in Photo #12 of this series.
Oh, about the Shrug Bar: If you're unfamiliar with it, instead of being a straight-line barbell that limits the range of motion due to it only being able to be lowered at an angle from your body, the Shrug Bar is constructed as a hexagonal frame that allows you to stand inside the hexagon and take a parallel grip on the bar's parallel handles inside the hexagon. This allows for lowering the bar in a straight line. The Shrug Bar is especially useful and recommended by many professional weightlifters for performing Parallel Grip Deadlifts, which I perform on Mondays.
CERVICAL MUSCLES - TRAPEZIUS
Cervical Spine Muscles Trapezius pain management 3D animations
DESCRIPTION
Trapezius is a flat triangular muscle covering the back of the neck and the upper thorax. The superior fibres descend, the inferior fibres ascend, and the intermediate fibres proceed horizontally. All fibres converge laterally on the shoulder. pain management 3D animations.
ORIGIN
Trapezius originates from the medial third of the superior nuchal line, external occipital protuberance, ligamentum nuchae, and apices of spinous process and their supraspinous ligaments from seventh cervical to twelfth thoracic vertebra.
INSERTION
Trapezius superior fibres insert into the posterior border of lateral third of clavicle.
Trapezius intermediate fibres insert into the medial acromial margin and superior lip of the crest of the scapular spine.
Trapezius inferior fibres join an aponeurosis that inserts into a tubercle at the lateral apex of the scapular spine.
VARIATIONS
Trapezius’ clavicular attachment sometimes reaches the middle of the clavicle, and occasionally blends with sternocleidomastoid. pain management 3D animations.
INNERVATION
Trapezius motor supply is from the spinal part of the accessory nerve. Sensory innervation is from the ventral rami of C3 and C4.
BLOOD SUPPLY
Trapezius is supplied by the superficial cervical artery or superficial branch of transverse cervical artery, acromial branch of suprascapular artery, dorsal perforating branches of posterior intercostal arteries. pain management 3D animations.
ACTION
Trapezius stabilises the scapulae.
Trapezius upper fibres elevates and rotates the scapulae forward (with serratus anterior) and retracts (with rhomboids) the scapulae.
Cervical Spine Muscles Trapezius pain management 3D animations
Author: Joanne Henrico Oesterreicher
Date: 1827-1830
Description: Musculi: I et II trapezius, III_V latissimus dorsi.
Technique: Lithographic drawing
Source: Tabulae anatomicae ad optima clarissimorum virorum rei anatomicae studiosorum exempla / Lapide insculptae ac editae a Joanne Henrico Oesterreicher. - Eichstadii : apud J.M. Beyer, 1827-1830. - 1 vol. : il., est. ; 47 cm. Faculty of Medicine's Library (IA/RES 484, Table VII).
Image and caption provided by: Silvia Di Marco and Pedro Bidarra Silva, FCUL
'Muscles du Dos. Premiere Couche. Trapezius et Grand Dorsal'. (Muscles of the Back. First layer. Trapezius and Latissimus Dorsi.) This plate shows the muscles of the back of an adult. Occipital, vertebrae, sacrum, coccyx, hip bone, omo, humerus, latissimus dorsi etc.
If you were looking for ways to both strengthen and increase stability of the musculature of the spine one could perform various exercises, but there is only one solution that doesn't require any kind of exercise - active sitting on SpinaliS chairs. Strengthen your core muscles while sitting!
SpinaliS Spider Series Chair is one of the most popular models in Canada:
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or drop by SpinaliS Vancouver store on
3619 West 4th Ave, Vancouver, BC, V6R 1P2
Core stability refers to a person's ability to stabilise their core. Stability, in this context, should be considered as an ability to control the position and movement of the core. Thus, if a person has greater core stability, they have a greater level of control over the position and movement of this area of their body. The body's core is frequently involved in aiding other movements of the body, such as the limbs, and it is considered that by improving core stability a person's ability to perform these other movements may also be improved i.e. core stability training may help improve someone's running ability. The bodies core region is sometimes referred to as the torso or the trunk, although there are some differences in the muscles identified as constituting them. The major muscles involved in core stability include the pelvic floor muscles, transversus abdominis, multifidus, internal and external obliques, rectus abdominis, erector spinae (sacrospinalis) especially the longissimus thoracis, and the diaphragm. The minor muscles involved include the latissimus dorsi, gluteus maximus, and trapezius. Notably, breathing, including the action of the diaphragm, can significantly influence the posture and movement of the core; this is especially apparent in regard to extreme ranges of inhalation and exhalation. On this basis, how a person is breathing may influence their ability to control their core.
Some researchers have argued that the generation of intra-abdominal pressure, caused by the activation of the core muscles and especially the transversus abdominis, may serve to lend support to the lumbar spine.
Typically, the core is associated with the body's center of gravity, which is over the region of the second sacral vertebrae groups and stability is associated with isometric or static strength. In addition, it is the lumbar spine that is primarily responsible for posture and stability thus providing the strength needed for the stability especially utilized in dynamic sports.
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Class I Medical Device
Health Canada has certified SpinaliS chairs as a Class I Medical Device to prevent spinal problems and treat existing ones.
Abs and Back Workout
Work out while sitting on any of the SpinaliS chairs and performing your daily tasks at the office or home.
Back Pain Relief
SpinaliS Chairs will work out your core muscles for you. Just sit, do your thing and leave everything else up to SpinaliS. STRONG CORE MUSCLES = NO BACK PAIN
Stylish Office Chairs
Design of the SpinaliS Chairs is an eye candy â your customers will definitely notice them!
Yoga Ball Alternative
It is recommended not to sit longer than 2 hours on a yoga ball, but on the SpinaliS chairs you can sit all day long.
Standing Desk Alternative
SpinaliS chairs will actually make your body to work out and get you into a great shape without the hard task of standing or exercising.
Who does use SpinaliS?
Google, Dubai Airport, SONY, IBM, DELL, Skoda Auto, CSOB Bank, Unicredit Bank, Vodafone and many more.
SpinaliS Canada
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