The trapezius is a large, paired muscle that extends from the occipital bone (at the back of the head) and the spinous processes of the cervical and thoracic vertebrae down to the scapula (shoulder blade) and clavicle (collarbone). It is a superficial muscle, meaning it lies close to the surface of the body, and plays a critical role in a wide range of movements, including scapular elevation (shrugging), depression (pulling shoulders down), retraction (pulling shoulders back), protraction (pulling shoulders forward), and upward rotation. It also aids in head and neck extension and rotation. Its broad shape and diverse attachments allow for varied actions based on which fibers are contracted. It is a key muscle for posture and upper body strength.
Trapezius meaning with examples
- During a shrug, the upper fibers of the trapezius contract to elevate the scapula, bringing the shoulders up toward the ears. This is a common exercise to target and strengthen this portion of the muscle. Weakness here can contribute to poor posture and neck strain. The trapezius is frequently a target during physical therapy.
- When performing a rowing exercise, the middle fibers of the trapezius contract to retract the scapulae, squeezing them together. This helps improve posture and strengthens the upper back. Properly contracting the trapezius is vital in stabilizing the shoulder joint and preventing injury during pulling movements.
- The lower fibers of the trapezius assist in depressing the scapulae, which is important during movements like dips or reaching down. This is a dynamic control of your scapular positioning, to perform your upper body movements and maintain the posture as well. Failure to engage can lead to imbalances.
- In movements like lateral raises, the upper trapezius is often recruited as a stabilizer, preventing the scapula from excessively elevating. In this exercise the main movers like the deltoids do the brunt of the work but with an inadequate trapezius, shoulder impingement and neck pain are common injuries.
- The trapezius is a large superficial muscle found in the upper back and neck and it acts to move the scapula and stabilize the shoulder. It is important in maintaining good posture and preventing injuries, especially during exercise and in desk-based workers who spend many hours with their shoulders protracted.
- When holding a heavy object, all portions of the trapezius work synergistically to stabilize the scapula, allowing for secure grip. Poor posture is one of the main issues, since the muscles and tissues surrounding the shoulders can get tight, and you can develop conditions like frozen shoulder, or neck pain.
- People who have a tight and overdeveloped upper trapezius are very prone to upper back pain and tension headaches. You have to strengthen and stretch that part of the trapezius to make it strong and resistant to common injuries that they are prone to.
- Proper exercise and the trapezius working appropriately can aid in improving postural control, and improve your overall balance and strength.
- When performing back squats the trapezius and the upper back act as a support that is commonly called the shelf. If this muscle group and overall part of your body isn't strong enough you may hurt yourself or the exercise will be far harder to perform.
Trapezius Synonyms
trap trapezius muscleTrapezius Crossword Answers
10 Letters
COWLMUSCLE
15 Letters
TRAPEZIUSMUSCLE
17 Letters
MUSCULUSTRAPEZIUS