The trapezius muscle can be strained during concentration or repetitive work, causing pain and tension. Rest, ice, and heat can help ease minor injuries, while more serious injuries may require diagnostic imaging. Strengthening and stretching exercises can prevent further injuries. Warning signs of a serious injury include numbness, dizziness, or increased pain.
The trapezius is a long muscle that runs from the base of the skull to the shoulder. Because it moves the neck and shoulder, it is commonly strained during concentration and is prone to repetitive stress injury (RSI). A minor trapezius injury can be treated with rest in a neutral position and ice for the first 48 hours. After the first couple of days and once the swelling has subsided, heat, massage, and over-the-counter pain relievers can help ease the pain. A more serious injury may require diagnostic imaging, such as an X-ray or CT scan, to determine appropriate treatment.
Trapezius injury can be difficult to diagnose. Neck pain can occur in a different location than the actual injury. A tight trapezius muscle can become knotted and radiate pain signals that appear to be in a different location in the neck than the actual site of the injury. Office workers, factory workers, or anyone who stays in one position for a long time runs the risk of pain and tension in the trapezius, called trapezius myalgia. The trapezius can also be injured during sudden movements during sports or following a traffic accident.
Immediately following a trapezius injury, resting your head and neck in a neutral position will help prevent further injury and allow the stretched muscles to heal. A supportive bed pillow should be used while sleeping, as inappropriate sleeping positions can aggravate injured muscles. Applying a cold compress to the injured muscle in the first 48 hours causes blood vessels to constrict, reducing blood flow and inflammation in the affected area. Sitting upright with your head in a neutral position also reduces blood flow to the area.
After the first couple of days have passed and once the initial swelling has subsided, the heat will help stimulate blood flow to the area and help the injury heal. If there is still pain, the muscle may be inflamed, putting pressure on the nerves. Over-the-counter pain medications, such as ibuprofen, will reduce painful inflammation.
Further injuries can be avoided by strengthening the trapezius and other neck muscles through stretching and exercise, especially weight training. It can also be helpful to take frequent breaks during repetitive work to move around so your muscles can stretch and prevent spasms. Improved work posture and ergonomic design of workspaces can help avoid repetitive stress injuries to the trapezius.
Warning signs of more serious trapezius injury include numbness, dizziness, or increased pain when you move your head. Numbness or weakness in the arm could mean a nerve is damaged and should be evaluated by a doctor. If the pain lasts longer than 2 to 3 weeks, physical therapy can help with healing.
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