This is also in the muscoloskeletal section, didn't see this section at first - apologies for the double post!

I have had problems with headaches and anxiety for a while now. It would appear that the problems are related to my levator scapulae which are noticeably inflamed and painful. They hurt when I turn my head and seem to cause headaches up the sides and back of my head in the occipital muscles. A physio recommended that I strengthen my serratus and upper trapezius, which I have been doing at the gym, but I have found it difficult to target the upper trapezius - the only exercise I know for doing this is the shrug. I can never seem to feel my upper trapezius get tired with the shrug but I often feel a tightness over the back of my neck pulling my head backwards. Is this the action of the levator scapulae? I read that shrugs target both the upper trapezius and levator. Should I be trying to isolate the upper traps as the levator is already overworked?

I have been doing mostly lateral raises, upright rows and shrugs to try and work the area, sometimes I get a little relief after exercise sometimes it seems to make things worse. Id really like to get an effective routine and see some relief in the levators. Recently when I have been doing shrugs (with dumbbells) I have circled my shoulder round to try and make sure I get the most effective exercise, unfortunately if anything this seems to make my symptoms worse. Any advice would be much appreciated!


....these headaches (in case anyone may find this interesting, or have any useful information in relation to) feel like a constant tightness over the back and sides of the head and are accompanied by a vague, floaty dizziness and anxiousness. My heart always feels like it is beating hard and fast even when I am in bed and I find it very difficult to relax and sleep. This seems to be at it's worst after I eat


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