📖 Static demo — read-only snapshot
You’re browsing a static build of the Body IQ knowledge graph, so everything loads with no backend. A few things that need the live server are turned off here:
- Global search (sidebar) is disabled — it queries the API.
- The JSON API and the API “Try it” playgroundaren’t included.
- The data is a snapshot — it refreshes only when the demo is rebuilt, not live from the database.
Everything else — the body map, progression ladders, coverage heatmap, exercise finder, and all anatomy/exercise/source pages — works fully. The full app (live search + API + database) runs from the source on GitHub.
Levator Scapulae
Muscle connecting cervical spine to scapula. Elevates the scapula and assists cervical lateral flexion and rotation.
Draft95%
Anatomy
- Origin
- Posterior tubercles of C1-C4 transverse processes
- Insertion
- Superior angle and medial border of scapula
- Action
- Scapular elevation; assists cervical lateral flexion and rotation
- Innervation
- Dorsal scapular nerve (C5) and direct branches from C3-C4 cervical plexus
- Blood Supply
- Dorsal scapular artery, transverse cervical artery
Movements (4)
| Movement | Joint | Role | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Scapular Elevation | Scapulothoracic Articulation | Primary | Co-primary scapular elevator |
| Scapular Downward Rotation | Scapulothoracic Articulation | Primary | Assists downward rotation |
| Cervical Lateral Flexion | Cervical Intervertebral Joints (C2-C7) | Secondary | Ipsilateral |
| Cervical Rotation | Cervical Intervertebral Joints (C2-C7) | Secondary | Ipsilateral |
Exercises (11)
| Exercise | Role |
|---|---|
| Scapular Downward Rotation Control (Arm Lowering) | Primary |
| Scapular Elevation and Depression (Shrugs / Reverse Shrugs) | Primary |
| Levator Scapulae Stretch | Primary |
| Scapular Clock (Wall-Supported) | Secondary |
| Upper Trapezius Stretch | Secondary |
| Upward Rotation Shrug (30° Abduction) | Secondary |
| Prone Cervical Extension | Stabilizer |
| Upper Cervical Rotation Drill | Synergist |
| Low Row (Band/Cable) | lengthening |
| Chin Tuck with Overpressure | lengthening |
| Mindfulness-Integrated Stretching | lengthening |
Sources
- Kinesiology of the Musculoskeletal System: Foundations for Rehabilitation — Anatomy of Levator Scapulae — origin, insertion, action, innervation
- Muscles: Testing and Function with Posture and Pain — Manual muscle testing for Levator Scapulae