What is it?
The serratus anterior muscle, which has a fan-like shape, begins its attachment on the upper and outer sides of either the first to eighth ribs or the first to ninth ribs along the side of the chest. It then extends and inserts itself along the upper corner, inner edge, and lower corner of the shoulder blade known as the scapula.
What happens if your Serratus Anterior is tight?
If we feel this tightness across our ribcage, then our body will use another muscle to accomplish the movement.
Some symptoms of Serratus Anterior Pain
- Arm or finger pain
- Sensitivity
- Difficulty with deep breathing
- Tightness
- Pain in the chest or breasts
- Shoulder blade pain
Why does it affect my neck?
The serratus anterior isn’t the sole shoulder blade upward rotator; it simply excels in this role. When it’s not functioning optimally, the body seeks an alternative way to achieve this motion, often engaging the upper trapezius as the next muscle in line.
The upper trapezius lacks proficiency in facilitating upward rotation of the shoulder blade, necessitating heightened exertion in this function, which frequently culminates in discomfort and pain. Additionally, due to its attachment to the skull and upper neck, its activation can significantly compress these anatomical structures.
Yoga Poses that will help simmer down the Pain
- Cat-Cow
- Cobra Pose
- Half Lord of the Fishes
- Assisted Side Bend
Why do we need to make sure we strengthen our Serratus Anterior Muscle?
The Serratus Anterior, also known as the “Big Swing Muscle” or “Boxer’s Muscle,” plays a crucial role in optimizing shoulder movement. Beyond its intriguing monikers, this muscle is essential for a wide range of arm motions, whether they involve open chain movements like punching or reaching for items in a cabinet, or closed chain movements like push-ups, planks, downward dogs, or handstands. Additionally, the serratus anterior is renowned for its role in preventing scapular winging, an abnormal displacement of the shoulder blade away from the thorax during arm movements. In this article, we will showcase the most effective exercises to enhance activation and control of this vital scapular stabilizer.
If you’re feeling discomfort from tense muscles around your ribcage, leading to mobility issues, don’t hesitate to reach out to Attuned Vitality Chiropractic and Wellness for an assessment. Dr. Wendy Brackeen, with over twenty years of expertise in athletic training, sports medicine, and chiropractic care, is ready to offer her expertise and support.