Which muscle is identified as a tonic dysfunction when tender at the scapular insertion?

Which muscle is identified as a tonic dysfunction when tender at the scapular insertion?

• A. Levator scapulae
• B. Trapezius
• C. Rhomboid minor
• D. Serratus anterior

Answer: (A)

Tonic dysfunction is a hypertonic, persistently shortened state of a muscle that often reveals itself by tenderness at its attachment points. The levator scapulae attaches to the superior angle of the scapula, so tenderness specifically at that scapular insertion points to hypertonicity of this muscle as the likely source of the dysfunction. This muscle’s job is to elevate the scapula, and when it becomes chronically tight from poor posture or neck/upper back strain, it can produce pain and limit scapulothoracic movement. While other muscles attach to the scapula (such as rhomboids, serratus anterior, and trapezius at various scapular locations), the classic tender point at the scapular insertion most commonly indicates levator scapulae involvement.

Tonic dysfunction is a hypertonic, persistently shortened state of a muscle that often reveals itself by tenderness at its attachment points. The levator scapulae attaches to the superior angle of the scapula, so tenderness specifically at that scapular insertion points to hypertonicity of this muscle as the likely source of the dysfunction. This muscle’s job is to elevate the scapula, and when it becomes chronically tight from poor posture or neck/upper back strain, it can produce pain and limit scapulothoracic movement. While other muscles attach to the scapula (such as rhomboids, serratus anterior, and trapezius at various scapular locations), the classic tender point at the scapular insertion most commonly indicates levator scapulae involvement.