Summary
This short instructional video from Dr. Berg demonstrates how to use his custom massage tool to perform a collarbone (clavicle) stretch for relieving neck stiffness and shoulder tension. The technique involves pressing the tool underneath the clavicle to create space and release tightness. Dr. Berg uses this tool personally every night as part of his routine.
Key Takeaways
- The massage tool has three different widths (short, medium, and long) designed to target different areas along the collarbone
- The technique involves pressing upward and slightly inward underneath the clavicle to create space and stretch the area
- Each position is held and repeated three times
- The stretch can be adjusted outward along the collarbone to address tension on a specific side (left or right)
- The clavicle runs from the center of the chest all the way to the shoulder, and the stretch targets this entire length
- Dr. Berg personally uses this tool for approximately five minutes every night before bed
Details
Tool Design
The massage tool features three distinct width settings, each designed to fit different grip positions and target different sections underneath the collarbone. The varying widths allow the user to work from the inner chest area outward toward the shoulder.
Technique Protocol
- Start with the shorter/inner width — position the tool underneath the clavicle near the center of the chest
- Press upward with a slight inward angle — the goal is to lift and create space beneath the collarbone
- Repeat the press three times at each position
- Move to the medium width — shift slightly outward along the clavicle and repeat three times
- Use the longest width for the outermost section near the shoulder, again repeating three times
- For one-sided tension — if one shoulder is tighter than the other, position the tool further out on that side to focus the stretch there
Targeted Anatomy
The stretch focuses on the tissue and structures directly beneath the clavicle, which spans from the sternum to the shoulder joint. Releasing this area is presented as effective for addressing neck stiffness and shoulder tightness.
Personal Use
Dr. Berg keeps the tool at his bedside and performs this self-massage nightly, suggesting it as a consistent maintenance practice rather than only a treatment for acute discomfort.