How and why to strengthen the upper trapezius, and common pitfalls

The upper trapezius muscle is an essential stabilizer of the scapula as well as cervical spine. It is greatly involved in proper scapular mechanics, especially upwards rotation and posterior tilting, making it an important player in amelioration of glenohumeral disorders such as impingement. When it is weak, usually due to poor posture and scapular dyskinesis, it may produce cervicogenic headaches and neck pain.