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OK muscle guys. I recently learned that I have severe degenerative arthritis in my neck and lower back. I will start physical therapy next week. The therapist is going to take on my neck first. He did say that part of the problem with my neck is no muscles to speak of in my upper back among other things. Would someone please tell me what exercise works the muscles in the upper back. I thought it was one of those lat machines, but I am not sure. Like a fool I thought push ups (military style) worked the upper back a bit but apparently they don't. I have my first session next week and will get all these questions answered, but if it is a machine I need for the upper back I thought I would start looking now. Thanks for any help.

No machine needed. Shrugs for upper. You can also get a head "harness" to strengthen the neck.
Good luck. (listen to your PT)

The PT should tell you all you need to know. Stay away from gymnastics and tackle football. That's why I have arthritis in my entire body. Didn't even know it until I had some ex-rays for other reasons. Fortunately It doesn't bother me much at present time. A little in my feet, and neck at times.

You got that right Wall. I don't do anything fast, i.e. no sudden moves anymore.

gemini - thanks - I forgot all about shoulder shrugs.

The Wall wrote:The PT should tell you all you need to know. Stay away from gymnastics and tackle football. That's why I have arthritis in my entire body. Didn't even know it until I had some ex-rays for other reasons. Fortunately It doesn't bother me much at present time. A little in my feet, and neck at times.

You should be able to find some exercises that don't require a machine or that can be done at home with weights. Light to start with, but pay attention to the PT.