Hi and welcome to the next addition to stretch-of-the-week. This week we will be discussing the scalene muscle, which is divided into three sections: anterior, midddle and aposterior. The brachial plexus and the subclavian artery pass between the anterior and middle scalene which can cause thoracic outlet syndrome, carpal tunnel syndrome and  other painful conditions through the neck, shoulders and arms. The scalenes are responsible for lateral felxion of the cervical spin and elevation of thr ibs during inpiration which assists greatly in breathing with easy.

To do this stretch the stretcher is supine with their head and neck rotated to one side as far as it will go. Make sure the stretcher keeps their nose pointed to the ceiling and pull the opposite shoulder away from their head, lengthening the scalene to their pain fre end range. The partner places their hand just above the stretchers ear and their other hand on the stretchers shoulder to anchor it. The stretcher should then attempt to push against the partners hand, making sure they do not rotate their head whilst doing this. Also make sure the stretcher does not lift their shoulder. After this stretch the stretcher should relax and inhale deeply. On the exhale the stretcher should try to extend their neck further, once again making sure their nose is pointed to the ceiling.

Always remember that while stretching may be recommended to aid recovery out of injury, you should always be very careful when stretching through rehabilitation.  Your soft tissues are likely to be more vulnerable to re-injury if you stretch too much or too hard during this time.  Always check with your Health Care Professional who is guiding you through your recovery to make sure it is appropriate to start stretching, and please - ALWAYS FOLLOW THE RULES FOR SAFE STRETCHING (blog #50).
Information obtained from McAtee, R. & Charland, J. (1993) Facilitated Stretching
Images from www.wikipedia.com