The trapezius (or traps) is a large muscle that extends longitudinally from the back of the skull to the lower thoracic vertebrae and laterally to the shoulder blade. Its functions are to move the shoulder blade, support the arm and help in extension of the neck(looking up). You may think of them as the thick muscles that run from the top of the shoulder to the base of the neck that get sometimes get sore. Your traps help stabilize your upper extremities (shoulders and arms) as well as your upper spine, if these are tight or spasmed they can affect the function of your neck, upper back, shoulders and arms. Click here to learn how to keep your traps properly stretched. To learn great stretches and exercises for the rest of your body go to our home page and click on exercises.
