Throughout my training at University, it was unusual to hear anything about focusing on strength through the upper traps for any shoulder injuries. More focus was put on “deactivating” this muscle through manual therapy work.
Over the past few years as I have continued my journey, many greater minds have taught me the importance of strengthening the upper traps and why. Many shoulder related issues arise due to muscular imbalances and poor control/movement of the shoulder blade. One in particular is the inability of the shoulder blade to upwardly rotate (see blog here). This is largely performed by the upper trapezius muscle and it is therefore important this is strengthened.
A couple of great exercises for this are shown below in a video posted by Adam Meakins (Sports physio).
Give it a try!
