In upper cross syndrome, which muscle group is typically facilitated?

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In upper cross syndrome, the muscles at the back of the neck and along the shoulders become overactive and tight, while the opposing muscles are weak. The best description of the typically facilitated group is the upper trapezius along with the levator scapulae. This combination commonly tightens with a forward head posture and rounded shoulders, pulling the shoulder blades upward and contributing to neck extension. The sternocleidomastoid is often involved as well, but the hallmark pattern that’s most consistently overactive involves the upper trapezius and levator scapulae. The other options refer to muscle groups not characteristically overactive in this pattern.