myofascial sequence between the rotator cuff and scalene plus levator scapulae

My hard work and diligence in identifying myofascial sequences based off the work from italian physiotherpist luigi and orthopaedic sugeon carla stecco ( what an awesome couple) has demonstrated a strong link between the rotator cuff muscles and scalene plus levator scapulae muscles. if you come across those stubborn cervical muscle spasm or rotator cuff hypertonicity especially posterior capsule tightness this may be of interest for you.

myofascial sequences

1. subscapularis is connected myofascially to anterior scalene and omohyoid

2. infraspinatus is connected myofascially to posterior scalene

3. supraspinatus is connected myofascially to levator scapulae and middle scalene

i have found that the middle scalene can be connected with infraspinatus as well

for example a cervical AROM assessment might deomnstrate cervical rotation defecits upon further assessment a tight anterior scalene can be identified this can be released by releasing subscapularis.
i find that if you put subscapularis under stretch by placing the shoulder at 90 degrees abduction in a fully externally rotated position; then supporting the arm with your thigh to free up the hands, then palpating the subscapularis muscle with the thumb of one hand while placing the thumb of the other hand over the anterior tubercles of the associated cervical segments of anterior scalene. the arm palapting anterior scalene is used to as a block over the forearm of the externally rotated arm. pressing either into subscapularis will cause a reflex within hte anterior scalene muscle or vice versa. a few repititions and you will feel the muscle release. once released reassess cervical or shoulder AROM

have a go with this technique as let me know how you go

you can try it with the other rotator cuff sequences as well

i have also found that serratus anterior is linked with upper trapezius if you start with palpating the distal attachment of upper trapz and palpate the superior fibres of serratus anterior you get a strong effect between the two areas the more centrally you palpate along the border of upper traps the lower you -palpate along the more inferior fibres of serratus anterior.