Quick, shallow breaths are an indication of forced inhalation.

Scalene muscles are typically reposed during normal respiration and only come into action during heavy exertion or forced inhalation. However, in a faulty breathing pattern, the scalene (along with the upper trapezius, levator scapulae, SCMS and pec minor) become primary breathing muscles and are active with each inspiration. This additional stress leads to the development of trigger points within these muscles. Assisting the client to correct their breathing pattern is as essential to rehabilitation as is releasing the hypertonic muscles.