Exercise for the clavicular head of the sternocleidomastoid

Summary

In this video, the speaker discusses the sternocleidomastoid (SCM) muscle, particularly focusing on strengthening the clavicular head. The speaker explains how dysfunction in the SCM can irritate the vagus nerve, potentially causing subtle autonomic symptoms like throat dryness, a lump sensation, ear itching, and chronic hiccups. They provide a step-by-step guide for strengthening the clavicular portion of the SCM, emphasizing a controlled, slow movement to avoid overstimulation. The speaker advises caution, especially for individuals with neck dysfunction or whiplash, recommending careful and gradual practice to avoid unwanted symptoms.

Takeaways

• 😀 The clavicular head of the sternocleidomastoid (SCM) muscle can cause pain and headaches, and strengthening it is important to avoid these issues.
• 😀 Massaging or stretching the SCM muscle may worsen pain, especially the clavicular portion, rather than help relieve it.
• 😀 The vagus nerve passes between the anterior scalene and the clavicular portion of the SCM, and dysfunction in these muscles can irritate the vagus nerve.
• 😀 Irritation of the vagus nerve can lead to subtle symptoms of dysautonomia, such as throat dryness and a feeling of a lump in the throat.
• 😀 Other symptoms of vagus nerve irritation include ear itching and chronic hiccups, due to its role in the Eustachian tube and tympanic plexus.
• 😀 Dysfunction of the SCM muscle can contribute to vagus nerve irritation and subtle autonomic symptoms, not just severe cases.
• 😀 To strengthen the clavicular portion of the SCM, flex the head 45 degrees forward, rotate it 45 degrees to the same side, and keep the body vertical.
• 😀 The head should be moved slowly and controlled, not jerking, to target the clavicular SCM muscle effectively.
• 😀 When performing the movement, guide the head with the mastoid process and avoid excessive movement with the forehead.
• 😀 Start slowly and carefully when performing SCM strengthening exercises, especially with patients who have severe neck dysfunction or whiplash, to avoid unwanted symptoms.

Q & A

What is the main focus of the video?

The video primarily focuses on the sternocleidomastoid (SCM) muscle, specifically the clavicular head, and how to strengthen it. It also discusses the potential link between SCM dysfunction and vagus nerve irritation, which can cause autonomic symptoms.

What are the common issues associated with the sternocleidomastoid (SCM) muscle?

The SCM muscle is known for being painful and can cause headaches. It is often associated with discomfort in the neck and head region.

Why is strengthening the clavicular head of the SCM important?

Strengthening the clavicular head of the SCM can help alleviate pain and discomfort in the neck area. The video suggests that improper treatment, like massaging or stretching this muscle, could worsen the situation.

What is the relationship between the vagus nerve and the SCM muscle?

The vagus nerve passes between the anterior scalene muscle and the clavicular portion of the SCM. Dysfunction in these muscles can irritate the vagus nerve, potentially leading to autonomic symptoms.

What autonomic symptoms might occur due to vagus nerve irritation?

Irritation of the vagus nerve can cause subtle autonomic symptoms such as dryness of the throat, a sensation of a lump in the throat, itching in the ear, and chronic hiccups.

What is the recommended technique to strengthen the clavicular head of the SCM muscle?

The technique involves flexing the head to approximately 45 degrees, rotating it laterally to the same side by about 45 degrees, and maintaining a vertical thorax. The head should be translated slightly upwards and anteriorly, guiding the motion with the lateral eyebrow.

What should one be careful of when performing the strengthening exercise?

It is important to perform the exercise slowly and with control. Jerking or quick movements can activate other muscles in the neck and may not target the SCM properly. Palpation of the clavicular portion of the SCM should ensure that the muscle is contracting throughout the motion.

Why is it important to avoid massaging or stretching the SCM muscle in certain cases?

The video suggests that massaging or stretching the SCM may worsen symptoms, especially if the muscle is already dysfunctional. Strengthening the muscle, rather than stretching or massaging it, is recommended for better results.

How should one approach the exercise if working with patients who have severe neck dysfunction?

For patients with severe neck dysfunction, such as those with whiplash, the exercise should be performed very carefully and slowly. A gentle approach is recommended to avoid unwanted symptoms and further strain on the neck muscles.

What is the recommended approach for someone new to strengthening the clavicular portion of the SCM?

For beginners, it is recommended to start carefully and slowly to avoid unwanted symptoms. The person should ensure proper alignment and guide the movement with the lateral eyebrow while avoiding jerking movements.