Anatomy
Trapezius
The trapezius is the large diamond-shaped muscle covering the back of the neck, the top of the shoulders and the upper back. It is where many people “carry” stress and long hours at the computer.
- Trapezius
Where is it?
It attaches to the base of the skull and to the spine from the neck to the mid-back, then to the collarbone and shoulder blade. It has three parts: upper (descending), middle (transverse) and lower (ascending).
What does it do?
It lifts, draws back and rotates the shoulder blade, which is essential for raising the arm overhead. The upper part also supports the weight of the arms and contributes to neck movement.
Common problems
Each problem has its own detailed page: symptoms, causes, treatment and when to seek care.
How we can help
When to seek care
Book an appointment if tension returns every week, wakes you, causes headaches or limits arm movement. Upper-back pain with chest pain, shortness of breath or feeling unwell means calling 911.
Frequently asked questions
Other areas of the body
Educational content: it does not replace an assessment. Your therapist determines the cause of your symptoms in person.