Accessing the Healing Power of the Vagus Nerve: Self-Help Exercises for Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, and Autism

by Stanley D. Rosenberg

For this test, we only have to squeeze the muscles on the top of the shoulder. The Trap Squeeze Test takes only a few seconds, and is well suited for use on children and people on the autism spectrum, with whom we might otherwise encounter difficulties in getting their cooperation for the usual technique. To use this form of testing, you first need to practice on several people in order to develop the necessary kinesthetic skills. It is normal to feel uncertain the first few times that you try testing the trapezius muscles. However, you will likely find that you can get the feel of it after a few attempts. CN XI can be tested by sliding, lifting, and rolling the top of the trapezius muscles (on the tops of the shoulders, halfway to the neck), and comparing them on the left and right sides. Although the trapezius muscle covers a large area, it is very thin. Take hold of the trapezius muscle on each side, squeezing it lightly between your thumb and your first finger (Figure 2). Whereas most novices simply grab the muscle, the lighter you squeeze, the better. If you squeeze lightly and slowly, you should be able to lift the muscle slightly away from the underlying muscles. Figure 2. Trap squeeze test Compare the tonus of the trapezius muscle on one side with the tonus of the trapezius muscle on the other side. Do the two sides feel the same to you, or is one side harder than the other? Ideally, both sides should be soft and elastic. However, one side is often soft and elastic...