EXERCISE OF THE WEEK: SCM THERAPY

The sternocleidomastoid (SCM) muscle has been an overlooked but important source of pain in many clients I see in physical therapy. The SCM is composed of clavicular (short head) and sternal (long head) divisions, and acts to flex the head downward or rotation the neck. These muscles can develop trigger points, which are typically taut bands of muscle fibers and are “ropy” and sensitive to pressure when compressed.