Tips to Alleviate Shoulder Pain from the Upper Trapezius

Find relief from shoulder pain in the upper trapezius with our comprehensive guide to treatments and preventive measures.

Introduction

Shoulder pain, particularly originating from the upper trapezius muscle, is a common complaint that affects millions of people worldwide. Whether you’re an office worker hunched over a desk, an athlete engaging in repetitive overhead motions, or someone dealing with the wear and tear of daily life, shoulder pain can significantly impact your quality of life. Fortunately, chiropractic care offers a non-invasive, effective approach to managing and alleviating this type of pain. This comprehensive blog post explores the role of the upper trapezius muscle in the body, the causes of shoulder pain, the impact of myofascial trigger points, and how chiropractic care, alongside other nonsurgical treatments, can provide relief. We’ll also delve into clinical insights from Dr. Alexander Jimenez, DC, APRN, FNP-BC, a renowned chiropractor whose expertise in musculoskeletal health informs much of this discussion.

 

Understanding the Upper Trapezius Muscle: Anatomy and Function

Anatomy of the Upper Trapezius

The trapezius muscle is a large, triangular muscle that spans the upper back and neck, divided into three distinct regions: upper, middle, and lower trapezius. The upper trapezius originates from the occipital bone at the base of the skull, the ligamentum nuchae (a fibrous structure in the neck), and the spinous processes of the cervical vertebrae (C1-C7). It inserts into the lateral third of the clavicle, the acromion, and the spine of the scapula (Ziaeifar et al., 2019).

This muscle is superficial, meaning it lies close to the skin’s surface, making it easily palpable and prone to tension or tenderness. The upper trapezius is innervated by the spinal accessory nerve (cranial nerve XI) and receives blood supply from branches of the occipital artery. Its structure allows it to play a significant role in stabilizing and moving the shoulder girdle.

Biomechanics and Function

The upper trapezius is a powerhouse in the upper body, contributing to several key movements:

• Scapular Elevation: The upper trapezius lifts the shoulder blade (scapula), as seen when you shrug your shoulders.
• Scapular Upward Rotation: It assists in rotating the scapula upward, which is critical for overhead arm movements, such as reaching or throwing.
• Neck Extension and Lateral Flexion: The upper trapezius helps extend the head backward and tilt it to the side.
• Stabilization: It stabilizes the shoulder girdle during arm movements, ensuring proper alignment and function.

These functions make the upper trapezius essential for daily activities like carrying bags, typing, or engaging in sports like swimming or CrossFit. However, its constant engagement in repetitive or static tasks can lead to overuse, tension, and pain (Brandt et al., 2014).

References:

• Ziaeifar, M., Arab, A. M., Karimi, N., & Nourbakhsh, M. R. (2019). Dry needling versus trigger point compression of the upper trapezius: A randomized clinical trial with two-week and three-month follow-up. Journal of Manual & Manipulative Therapy, 27(3), 152–161. https://doi.org/10.1080/10669817.2018.1530421
• Brandt, M., Sundstrup, E., Jakobsen, M. D., Jay, K., Colado, J. C., Wang, Y., & Andersen, L. L. (2014). Association between neck/shoulder pain and trapezius muscle tenderness in office workers. Pain Research and Treatment, 2014, 352735. https://doi.org/10.1155/2014/352735

 

Causes of Shoulder Pain in the Upper Trapezius

Shoulder pain associated with the upper trapezius can stem from various factors, ranging from lifestyle habits to acute injuries. Understanding these causes is crucial for identifying effective treatment strategies.

1. Repetitive Strain and Overuse

Repetitive activities, such as prolonged computer use or overhead sports, place continuous stress on the upper trapezius. Office workers, for example, often maintain static postures while typing, leading to muscle fatigue and tightness (Aydın et al., 2021). Similarly, athletes like swimmers or CrossFit practitioners may experience overuse due to repetitive shoulder movements (Silva et al., 2022).

2. Poor Posture

Forward head posture, common among desk workers or those who frequently use smartphones, increases tension in the upper trapezius. This posture forces the muscle to work harder to stabilize the neck and shoulders, leading to strain and potential trigger point formation (Brandt et al., 2014).

3. Stress and Muscle Tension

Psychological stress can cause involuntary tightening of the upper trapezius, as the body responds to stress by tensing muscles in the neck and shoulders. Chronic stress exacerbates this, leading to persistent pain and discomfort (Cleveland Clinic, 2025).

4. Trauma or Injury

Acute injuries, such as whiplash from car accidents or falls, can strain or tear the upper trapezius, resulting in pain and reduced mobility. Whiplash-associated disorders (WAD) are particularly associated with upper trapezius dysfunction (Voerman et al., 2007).

5. Myofascial Trigger Points

Myofascial trigger points are hyperirritable spots within the muscle that cause localized or referred pain. In the upper trapezius, these points can develop due to overuse, poor posture, or injury, leading to shoulder and neck pain (Ziaeifar et al., 2019).

6. Occupational and Ergonomic Factors

Office workers and individuals in sedentary jobs are at higher risk for trapezius-related pain due to prolonged sitting and improper workstation ergonomics. Inadequate chair support, monitor height, or keyboard positioning can exacerbate muscle strain (Brandt et al., 2014).

References:

• Aydın, N. S., Çelenay, Ş. T., & Özer Kaya, D. (2021). Muscle activation of the upper trapezius and functional typing performance during the computer typing task: A comparison of two different wrist immobilization methods. Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies, 27, 472–476. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jbmt.2021.05.001
• Silva, E. R., Maffulli, N., & Santos, G. M. (2022). Function, strength, and muscle activation of the shoulder complex in CrossFit practitioners with and without pain: A cross-sectional observational study. Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery and Research, 17(1), 24. https://doi.org/10.1186/s13018-022-02915-x
• Brandt, M., Sundstrup, E., Jakobsen, M. D., Jay, K., Colado, J. C., Wang, Y., & Andersen, L. L. (2014). Association between neck/shoulder pain and trapezius muscle tenderness in office workers. Pain Research and Treatment, 2014, 352735. https://doi.org/10.1155/2014/352735
• Voerman, G. E., Vollenbroek-Hutten, M. M. R., & Hermens, H. J. (2007). Upper trapezius muscle activation patterns in neck-shoulder pain patients and healthy controls. European Journal of Applied Physiology, 102(1), 1–9. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00421-006-0215-8
• Cleveland Clinic. (2025, February 4). For relief, pull the trigger on a trigger point massage. Health Essentials. https://health.clevelandclinic.org/trigger-point-massage
• Ziaeifar, M., Arab, A. M., Karimi, N., & Nourbakhsh, M. R. (2019). Dry needling versus trigger point compression of the upper trapezius: A randomized clinical trial with two-week and three-month follow-up. Journal of Manual & Manipulative Therapy, 27(3), 152–161. https://doi.org/10.1080/10669817.2018.1530421

 

Myofascial Trigger Points and Their Impact on Shoulder Pain

What Are Myofascial Trigger Points?

Myofascial trigger points are localized, hyperirritable spots in skeletal muscle that are associated with palpable nodules in taut bands of muscle fibers. These points can cause both localized pain and referred pain to other areas, such as the neck, head, or shoulders. In the upper trapezius, trigger points are particularly common due to the muscle’s role in stabilizing and moving the shoulder girdle (Ziaeifar et al., 2019).

How Trigger Points Cause Shoulder Pain

Trigger points in the upper trapezius can lead to:

• Localized Pain: A trigger point may feel like a tender knot that causes sharp or aching pain when pressed.
• Referred Pain: Pain from an upper trapezius trigger point can radiate to the neck, head (causing tension headaches), or down the arm.
• Restricted Mobility: Tightness in the muscle can limit neck and shoulder movement, making daily tasks like turning the head or lifting objects painful.
• Muscle Weakness: Chronic trigger points may weaken the upper trapezius, leading to compensatory overuse of other muscles and further pain (Stieven et al., 2021).

Trigger points often develop from repetitive strain, poor posture, or stress, and they can perpetuate a cycle of pain and dysfunction if not addressed (Cleveland Clinic, 2025).

Clinical Impact

Research shows a strong association between neck/shoulder pain intensity and trapezius muscle tenderness in office workers, with pain intensity increasing with the severity of tenderness (Brandt et al., 2014). This suggests that trigger points are a significant contributor to chronic shoulder pain and require targeted interventions for relief.

References:

• Ziaeifar, M., Arab, A. M., Karimi, N., & Nourbakhsh, M. R. (2019). Dry needling versus trigger point compression of the upper trapezius: A randomized clinical trial with two-week and three-month follow-up. Journal of Manual & Manipulative Therapy, 27(3), 152–161. https://doi.org/10.1080/10669817.2018.1530421
• Stieven, F. F., Ferreira, G. E., de Araújo, F. X., de Medeiros, F. S., da Rosa, L. H. T., de Oliveira, M. X., & da Silva, M. F. (2021). Immediate effects of dry needling and myofascial release on local and widespread pressure pain threshold in individuals with active upper trapezius trigger points: A randomized clinical trial. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, 44(2), 95–102. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jmpt.2020.07.003
• Brandt, M., Sundstrup, E., Jakobsen, M. D., Jay, K., Colado, J. C., Wang, Y., & Andersen, L. L. (2014). Association between neck/shoulder pain and trapezius muscle tenderness in office workers. Pain Research and Treatment, 2014, 352735. https://doi.org/10.1155/2014/352735
• Cleveland Clinic. (2025, February 4). For relief, pull the trigger on a trigger point massage. Health Essentials. https://health.clevelandclinic.org/trigger-point-massage

 

Chiropractic Care for Upper Trapezius Pain: Clinical Rationale

Chiropractic care is a holistic, non-invasive approach to managing musculoskeletal pain, including shoulder pain caused by upper trapezius dysfunction. Chiropractors like Dr. Alexander Jimenez, DC, APRN, FNP-BC, use a combination of manual therapies, diagnostic evaluations, and patient education to address the root causes of pain.

Why Chiropractic Care Helps

• Spinal and Joint Alignment:
  • Misalignments in the cervical spine or shoulder girdle can contribute to upper trapezius tension. Chiropractic adjustments restore proper alignment, reducing stress on the muscle and improving biomechanics (Jimenez, 2025).
  • Adjustments to the cervical spine can enhance nerve function, reducing irritation that may exacerbate trigger points.
• Myofascial Release and Soft Tissue Therapy:
  • Chiropractors often use myofascial release techniques to target trigger points in the upper trapezius, relieving tension and improving muscle elasticity (Stieven et al., 2021).
  • These techniques improve blood flow and reduce muscle stiffness, promoting healing.
• Postural Correction:
  • Poor posture is a leading cause of upper trapezius pain. Chiropractors assess and correct posture through exercises and ergonomic advice, reducing strain on the muscle (Brandt et al., 2014).
• Pain Reduction and Mobility:
  • Chiropractic care can reduce pain intensity and improve range of motion by addressing both the muscle and surrounding joints, allowing patients to resume normal activities (Crookes et al., 2023).

• Holistic Approach:
  • Chiropractors consider lifestyle factors, such as stress or repetitive activities, and provide strategies to prevent pain recurrence, such as stretching or strengthening exercises (Jimenez, 2025).

Dr. Alexander Jimenez’s Clinical Approach

Dr. Alexander Jimenez, a chiropractor based in El Paso, Texas, is renowned for his integrative approach to musculoskeletal health. His practice emphasizes:

• Advanced Imaging and Diagnostics: Dr. Jimenez uses tools like X-rays, MRIs, and ultrasound to assess structural issues in the spine and shoulder, identifying misalignments or soft tissue damage that contribute to upper trapezius pain (Jimenez, 2025).
• Dual-Scope Procedures: He combines chiropractic adjustments with advanced diagnostic evaluations, such as electromyography (EMG), to assess muscle activation patterns and pinpoint dysfunction in the trapezius.
• Personalized Treatment Plans: Based on diagnostic findings, Dr. Jimenez tailors treatments to address specific injuries, incorporating spinal adjustments, myofascial release, and rehabilitative exercises.
• Patient Education: He empowers patients with knowledge about ergonomics, posture, and lifestyle modifications to prevent pain recurrence.

Dr. Jimenez’s approach aligns with research showing that chiropractic care, combined with soft tissue therapies, effectively reduces shoulder pain and improves function (Jimenez, 2025; Crookes et al., 2023).

References:

• Stieven, F. F., Ferreira, G. E., de Araújo, F. X., de Medeiros, F. S., da Rosa, L. H. T., de Oliveira, M. X., & da Silva, M. F. (2021). Immediate effects of dry needling and myofascial release on local and widespread pressure pain threshold in individuals with active upper trapezius trigger points: A randomized clinical trial. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, 44(2), 95–102. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jmpt.2020.07.003
• Brandt, M., Sundstrup, E., Jakobsen, M. D., Jay, K., Colado, J. C., Wang, Y., & Andersen, L. L. (2014). Association between neck/shoulder pain and trapezius muscle tenderness in office workers. Pain Research and Treatment, 2014, 352735. https://doi.org/10.1155/2014/352735
• Crookes, T., Ewald, A., & Jennings, M. (2023). Chronic shoulder pain. Australian Journal of General Practice, 52(11), 753–758. https://doi.org/10.31128/AJGP-04-23-6790
• Jimenez, A. (2025). Dr. Alexander Jimenez – Injury medical chiropractor. https://dralexjimenez.com/
• Jimenez, A. (2025). LinkedIn profile. https://www.linkedin.com/in/dralexjimenez/

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Nonsurgical Treatments for Myofascial Trigger Points in the Upper Trapezius

Several nonsurgical treatments have been studied for their effectiveness in reducing myofascial trigger point pain in the upper trapezius. Below are evidence-based approaches derived from the provided research.

1. Dry Needling

Dry needling involves inserting a thin needle into a trigger point to elicit a local twitch response, which helps release muscle tension and reduce pain. Studies show that dry needling significantly reduces pain intensity and improves neck disability and arm function in individuals with upper trapezius trigger points (Ziaeifar et al., 2019). It also produces local and distant hypalgesic effects, meaning it can reduce pain sensitivity in both the treated area and other parts of the body (Stieven et al., 2021).

2. Trigger Point Compression

Trigger point compression, or ischemic compression, involves applying sustained pressure to a trigger point until the muscle relaxes. This technique has been shown to reduce pain and disability in the upper trapezius, with effects lasting up to three months (Ziaeifar et al., 2019). It is less invasive than dry needling and can be performed by chiropractors or physical therapists.

3. Myofascial Release

Myofascial release involves gentle, sustained pressure to release restrictions in the fascial tissue surrounding the muscle. Research indicates that a single session of myofascial release can increase pressure pain thresholds, reducing pain sensitivity in the upper trapezius (Stieven et al., 2021). This technique is often used in chiropractic care to complement spinal adjustments.

4. Thermal Ultrasound

Thermal ultrasound uses sound waves to heat and soften trigger points, reducing tissue stiffness. A study found that thermal ultrasound significantly increased tissue depth (indicating reduced stiffness) in the upper trapezius compared to a sham treatment, making it a comfortable and effective option (Draper et al., 2010).

5. Stretching Relaxation

Stretching exercises targeting the upper trapezius can reduce muscle tension and stiffness while improving elasticity. A study comparing stretching to other relaxation techniques found significant improvements in trapezius muscle properties after two weeks of daily stretching (Li et al., 2024).

6. Mechanical Vibration Massage

Mechanical vibration massage uses devices to deliver oscillatory movements to the muscle, reducing tension and stiffness. This method has been shown to improve trapezius muscle elasticity and decrease pain when applied daily over two weeks (Li et al., 2024).

7. Pulse Massage

Pulse massage, which involves rhythmic pressure, similarly reduces tension and stiffness in the upper trapezius. Like stretching and vibration massage, it is more effective than no treatment and can be incorporated into a comprehensive treatment plan (Li et al., 2024).

8. Trigger Point Massage

Trigger point massage, as described by the Cleveland Clinic, involves applying direct pressure to trigger points to relieve tension and pain. This can be done at home or by a licensed massage therapist and is effective for improving circulation, mobility, and sleep quality while reducing stress (Cleveland Clinic, 2025).

9. Rigid Taping

Rigid taping limits wrist movement to reduce strain on the upper trapezius during tasks like typing. While it does not significantly alter muscle activation, it improves typing performance compared to splinting, making it a practical option for office workers (Aydın et al., 2021).

References:

• Ziaeifar, M., Arab, A. M., Karimi, N., & Nourbakhsh, M. R. (2019). Dry needling versus trigger point compression of the upper trapezius: A randomized clinical trial with two-week and three-month follow-up. Journal of Manual & Manipulative Therapy, 27(3), 152–161. https://doi.org/10.1080/10669817.2018.1530421
• Stieven, F. F., Ferreira, G. E., de Araújo, F. X., de Medeiros, F. S., da Rosa, L. H. T., de Oliveira, M. X., & da Silva, M. F. (2021). Immediate effects of dry needling and myofascial release on local and widespread pressure pain threshold in individuals with active upper trapezius trigger points: A randomized clinical trial. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, 44(2), 95–102. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jmpt.2020.07.003
• Draper, D. O., Mahaffey, C., Kaiser, D., Eggett, D., & Jarmin, J. (2010). Thermal ultrasound decreases tissue stiffness of trigger points in upper trapezius muscles. Physiotherapy Theory and Practice, 26(3), 167–172. https://doi.org/10.3109/09593980903423079
• Li, G., Liu, D., Yang, D., & He, L. (2024). The impact of different muscle relaxation techniques on the upper trapezius and its relationship with the middle trapezius. Journal of Physiological Investigation, 67(4), 225–232. https://doi.org/10.4103/ejpi.EJPI-D-24-00041
• Aydın, N. S., Çelenay, Ş. T., & Özer Kaya, D. (2021). Muscle activation of the upper trapezius and functional typing performance during the computer typing task: A comparison of two different wrist immobilization methods. Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies, 27, 472–476. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jbmt.2021.05.001
• Cleveland Clinic. (2025, February 4). For relief, pull the trigger on a trigger point massage. Health Essentials. https://health.clevelandclinic.org/trigger-point-massage

 

Integrating Chiropractic Care with Nonsurgical Treatments

Chiropractic care can be combined with the above nonsurgical treatments to create a comprehensive treatment plan for upper trapezius pain. For example:

• Chiropractic Adjustments + Dry Needling: Adjustments restore spinal alignment, while dry needling targets trigger points for immediate pain relief.
• Myofascial Release + Stretching: Chiropractors can perform myofascial release during sessions and prescribe stretching exercises for home use to maintain muscle flexibility.
• Thermal Ultrasound + Postural Correction: Ultrasound can soften trigger points, while chiropractic care addresses underlying postural issues to prevent recurrence.
• Patient Education: Dr. Jimenez emphasizes educating patients on ergonomic adjustments, such as proper desk setup or stress management techniques, to complement in-office treatments (Jimenez, 2025).

This integrative approach addresses both the symptoms and underlying causes of upper trapezius pain, promoting long-term relief.

References:

• Jimenez, A. (2025). Dr. Alexander Jimenez – Injury medical chiropractor. https://dralexjimenez.com/

 

Preventing Upper Trapezius Pain

Prevention is key to avoiding recurrent shoulder pain. Here are practical tips based on research and clinical insights:

• Ergonomic Adjustments: Ensure your workstation supports neutral posture, with the monitor at eye level and a supportive chair (Brandt et al., 2014).
• Regular Stretching: Incorporate daily stretches for the upper trapezius to maintain flexibility (Li et al., 2024).
• Stress Management: Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing or yoga to reduce muscle tension (Cleveland Clinic, 2025).
• Strengthening Exercises: Strengthen scapular stabilizers, such as the lower trapezius, to reduce strain on the upper trapezius (Silva et al., 2022).
• Regular Chiropractic Care: Routine adjustments can prevent misalignments and maintain optimal muscle function (Jimenez, 2025).

References:

• Brandt, M., Sundstrup, E., Jakobsen, M. D., Jay, K., Colado, J. C., Wang, Y., & Andersen, L. L. (2014). Association between neck/shoulder pain and trapezius muscle tenderness in office workers. Pain Research and Treatment, 2014, 352735. https://doi.org/10.1155/2014/352735
• Li, G., Liu, D., Yang, D., & He, L. (2024). The impact of different muscle relaxation techniques on the upper trapezius and its relationship with the middle trapezius. Journal of Physiological Investigation, 67(4), 225–232. https://doi.org/10.4103/ejpi.EJPI-D-24-00041
• Silva, E. R., Maffulli, N., & Santos, G. M. (2022). Function, strength, and muscle activation of the shoulder complex in CrossFit practitioners with and without pain: A cross-sectional observational study. Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery and Research, 17(1), 24. https://doi.org/10.1186/s13018-022-02915-x
• Cleveland Clinic. (2025, February 4). For relief, pull the trigger on a trigger point massage. Health Essentials. https://health.clevelandclinic.org/trigger-point-massage
• Jimenez, A. (2025). Dr. Alexander Jimenez – Injury medical chiropractor. https://dralexjimenez.com/

 

Conclusion

Shoulder pain originating from the upper trapezius muscle is a common issue driven by factors like repetitive strain, poor posture, stress, and myofascial trigger points. Chiropractic care, as championed by experts like Dr. Alexander Jimenez, offers a powerful, non-invasive solution by addressing spinal misalignments, releasing muscle tension, and promoting long-term healing through personalized treatment plans. Combined with nonsurgical treatments like dry needling, myofascial release, and thermal ultrasound, chiropractic care can significantly reduce pain and improve function.

Disclaimer: This blog post is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Shoulder pain can have various causes, and persistent or severe pain should be evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider. Consult a chiropractor, physician, or physical therapist for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan tailored to your needs. If you experience chronic or worsening symptoms, seek professional care immediately.

References:

• Ziaeifar, M., Arab, A. M., Karimi, N., & Nourbakhsh, M. R. (2019). Dry needling versus trigger point compression of the upper trapezius: A randomized clinical trial with two-week and three-month follow-up. Journal of Manual & Manipulative Therapy, 27(3), 152–161. https://doi.org/10.1080/10669817.2018.1530421
• Stieven, F. F., Ferreira, G. E., de Araújo, F. X., de Medeiros, F. S., da Rosa, L. H. T., de Oliveira, M. X., & da Silva, M. F. (2021). Immediate effects of dry needling and myofascial release on local and widespread pressure pain threshold in individuals with active upper trapezius trigger points: A randomized clinical trial. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, 44(2), 95–102. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jmpt.2020.07.003
• Aydın, N. S., Çelenay, Ş. T., & Özer Kaya, D. (2021). Muscle activation of the upper trapezius and functional typing performance during computer typing task: A comparison of two different wrist immobilization methods. Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies, 27, 472–476. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jbmt.2021.05.001
• Silva, E. R., Maffulli, N., & Santos, G. M. (2022). Function, strength, and muscle activation of the shoulder complex in CrossFit practitioners with and without pain: A cross-sectional observational study. Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery and Research, 17(1), 24. https://doi.org/10.1186/s13018-022-02915-x
• Brandt, M., Sundstrup, E., Jakobsen, M. D., Jay, K., Colado, J. C., Wang, Y., & Andersen, L. L. (2014). Association between neck/shoulder pain and trapezius muscle tenderness in office workers. Pain Research and Treatment, 2014, 352735. https://doi.org/10.1155/2014/352735
• Voerman, G. E., Vollenbroek-Hutten, M. M. R., & Hermens, H. J. (2007). Upper trapezius muscle activation patterns in neck-shoulder pain patients and healthy controls. European Journal of Applied Physiology, 102(1), 1–9. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00421-006-0215-8
• Crookes, T., Ewald, A., & Jennings, M. (2023). Chronic shoulder pain. Australian Journal of General Practice, 52(11), 753–758. https://doi.org/10.31128/AJGP-04-23-6790
• Cleveland Clinic. (2025, February 4). For relief, pull the trigger on a trigger point massage. Health Essentials. https://health.clevelandclinic.org/trigger-point-massage
• Draper, D. O., Mahaffey, C., Kaiser, D., Eggett, D., & Jarmin, J. (2010). Thermal ultrasound decreases tissue stiffness of trigger points in upper trapezius muscles. Physiotherapy Theory and Practice, 26(3), 167–172. https://doi.org/10.3109/09593980903423079
• Li, G., Liu, D., Yang, D., & He, L. (2024). The impact of different muscle relaxation techniques on the upper trapezius and its relationship with the middle trapezius. Journal of Physiological Investigation, 67(4), 225–232. https://doi.org/10.4103/ejpi.EJPI-D-24-00041
• Jimenez, A. (2025). Dr. Alexander Jimenez – Injury medical chiropractor. https://dralexjimenez.com/
• Jimenez, A. (2025). LinkedIn profile. https://www.linkedin.com/in/dralexjimenez/