ABSTRACT
The levator scapulae is attached distally at the superior medial angle of the scapula and to the superior part of the spine of the scapula and proximally to the transverse processes of cervical vertebrae 1 through 5 (Fig. 51.1). It has a dual action: when the cervical spine is fixed, it elevates the scapula; if the scapula is fixed, it produces ipsilateral rotation and a lateral bending of the cervical spine. Tenderness to palpation of its scapular attachment is found very frequently on systematic examination. It is sometimes sufficiently sharp to cause spontaneous pain (Fig. 51.2).
