Trapezius Myalgia
By Sameera Withanage
Introduction
Trapezius myalgia, often referred to as trapezius muscle pain, is a condition characterized by discomfort, pain, stiffness, and tightness in the trapezius muscle, which extends from the base of the skull to the middle of the back and shoulders. It is also commonly referred to as persistent neck pain. This condition can have an overall negative impact on the quality of life of individuals, resulting in consistent pain that progresses to headache or migraine episodes. The trapezius muscle consists of three parts: upper, middle, and lower trapezius. Usually, trapezius myalgia affects the upper trapezius area.
Symptoms
The general clinical symptoms of myalgia are as follows.
1) Pain and Tenderness
The primary symptom of trapezius myalgia is pain and tenderness in the affected muscle, especially in the neck and upper shoulder area. The discomfort may range from a dull ache to a sharp, stabbing pain.
2) Limited Range of Motion
Individuals with trapezius myalgia may experience a reduced range of motion in the neck and shoulders. This limitation can impact daily activities and contribute to further muscle strain as the muscle weakens.
3) Headaches
Pain from the trapezius muscle may radiate to the head, causing tension headaches. These headaches often originate from muscle tension in the neck and shoulders.
4) Muscle Stiffness
Stiffness in the trapezius muscle, especially upon waking or after prolonged periods of inactivity, is a common symptom of myalgia.
Causes
According to the latest evidence, trapezius myalgia is closely associated with occupational exposure, especially having a higher prevalence among office workers with high repetitive work, prolonged static loads, and constrained work postures. It has been proven that gender plays a vital role in neck and shoulder pain, making women more susceptible than men. That being said, the following are the most common causes resulting in trapezius myalgia.
1) Muscle Strain
Trapezius myalgia is commonly associated with muscle strain due to overuse or poor posture. Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk, working on a computer, or holding the head in an awkward position can contribute to muscle tension and pain.
2) Emotional Stress
Stress and anxiety can manifest physically, leading to muscle tension and discomfort. The trapezius muscle is particularly susceptible to stress-related myalgia, as individuals may unconsciously tense their shoulders and neck in response to emotional strain.
3) Injury
Trapezius myalgia can also result from a direct injury to the muscle, such as a fall or sudden impact. Whiplash, often associated with car accidents, can cause trauma to the trapezius muscle, leading to pain and stiffness.
Treatments
When it comes to treatment options, raising awareness among high-risk groups has proven to be more beneficial in controlling the affected population. The treatment options may vary depending on the severity and stage of the pain. Generally, the recommended approach would be as follows:
1) Rest and Ice
Initially, in the early onset of symptoms, it's crucial to rest the affected muscle and apply ice to reduce inflammation. This can help alleviate acute pain and promote healing.
2) Physiotherapy
Physiotherapy can be beneficial for trapezius myalgia by focusing on specific stretching, strengthening programs, and manual therapy. Ischaemic compression to release trigger point formations and transverse frictional massage are some of the techniques commonly used. Different forms of tailored exercise are utilized in approaching the said condition as it has been proven to be the most effective and long-lasting pain relief in patients with trapezius myalgia. This would be followed up with posture correction and ergonomic changes in the workplace and day-to-day life.
3) Heat Therapy
Applying heat to the affected area, such as using warm compresses or taking warm baths, can help relax the trapezius muscle and alleviate stiffness.
4) Pain Medications
Over-the-counter pain medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), can help manage pain and reduce inflammation. However, these should be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
5) Stress Management
Since stress is a common contributor to trapezius myalgia, stress management techniques like relaxation exercises, deep breathing, and meditation can be helpful in preventing and managing symptoms.
Conclusion
Trapezius myalgia is a prevalent condition that can significantly impact an individual's daily life. Understanding the causes, recognizing symptoms, and implementing appropriate treatment strategies are essential for managing this condition effectively. If symptoms persist or worsen, it's crucial to seek guidance from a healthcare professional for a comprehensive assessment and a tailored treatment plan.
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