What causes tight trapezius muscles?

Hi MK. There are (can be) several reasons for a tight trapezius muscle. One common cause is stress which can manifest itself as tight neck and trapezius muscles.

LaRue, CSCS
www.lecfitness.com

When one doesn’t stretch, the muscle becomes tight.

All muscles become “tight” when one doesn’t engage in flexibility training.

I hope this is of help.

Poor posture, or poor alignment with the head protracting
For example hyperlordosis will increase the cyphosis and the forward flexion of the head as a compensatory pattern and will put stress on the upper trapezius who has then to carry a heavy weight (the head) and also poor midd and lower trapezius strength and latissimus strength (unbalanced strength in back muscles and pectoralis major). All the muscles that lower the shoulders should be reinforced but before we need to stretch the tight neck extensors and mobilize the spine.

Sitting at a computer or desk all day

Overtraining opposite muscle groups

Hello M K,

So, to put it in a nutshell, poor form/posture and not enough proper exercise. People need to remember to try to use proper form and posture throughout the entire day; it really does help.
Take care,
Natalie.