Trapezius Myalgia
Neck pain is very common musculoskeletal condition and almost two third of people experiences neck pain at certain point in their life.[1] Trapezius Myalgia is one of the most common causes of neck pain. It refers to pain and spasm in neck due to inflammation of Trapezius muscle. Middle aged females are more prone for development of trapezius myalgia than males.[2]
You are at greater risk for development of trapezius myalgia if your job demands prolong desk work, if you are working without arm support or if you love long car rides. Other than this, activities with sudden one-sided movements of your neck, repetitive movements or stressful situation may also trigger this condition. You may feel continuous pain and stiffness in neck region, discomfort at nape of neck after prolong driving, swelling might be present in upper part of scapula (shoulder blade), restricted neck movements, tightness or spasm of trapezius muscle, tenderness over muscle.
How Physical Therapy can help you
Trapezius Myalgia can be managed with effective physical therapy treatment. It requires thorough initial assessment which not only focuses on your available neck movements, muscle strength and posture but it also includes your symptoms, your work habits, and activities of daily living that are bothering you. Thereafter, we make customized protocol tailored to you which follows scientific evidence-based approaches:
Spasm in Trapezius muscle can be relieved by using Interferential Current (IFC) which stimulates trapezius muscle and produces pumping action which ultimately increases blood flow and thus relieves spasm and pain. Hot pack serves the same purpose by increasing local tissue temperature which tends to increase amount of oxygen and nutrient supply. To mitigate trigger points in trapezius muscle, Ischaemic Compression Technique is used which involves application of sustained digital pressure which constricts flow of blood to muscle and upon release of pressure there will be resurgence of blood which washes waste products away and allows muscle to heal.[3] Other than this, Forward Head Posture which is the common cause of Trapezius Myalgia can be corrected by selective stretching of Pectoralis Major, Pectoralis Minor and Levator Scapulae muscle.[4] In addition to this, elastic band strengthening exercise that targets Serratus Anterior, Rhomboids, Middle and Lower Trapezius muscle provide additional support to scapula and cervical spine as well as prevent recurrence of Trapezius Myalgia.[5] Reciprocal Inhibition Technique which works on principles of Muscle Energy Technique (MET) involves isometric contarction of trapezius muscle followed by stretching of same and it shows significant improvement in neck movements.[6]
If you are suffering from trapezius myalgia then:
- Avoid sitting in one position for longer period of time. Take breaks to move and stretch your neck muscle throughout day
- Use Ergonomic chair and adjust computer to your eye level
- Avoid lifting heavy weights that stresses trapezius muscle
Physical Therapy for Trapezius Myalgia is not about treating symptoms, it’s about embracing a holistic approach to health. Reach out to your nearest Advance Physical Therapy clinic to experience customized treatment protocol tailored to you. Your journey to pain free life is within reach!
References:
1) Somasundaram, S., Balamurugan, S. P., Mani, P., & Chinnusamy, S. (2024). Effectiveness of trigger release with ultrasound therapy versus positional release with ultrasound therapy on neck pain and cervical range of motion in long term computer users with upper Trapezitis-a comparative study.
2) Shinde, K., & Karpe, M. (2019). Effect of Integrated Neuromuscular Inhibition Technique versus Ischaemic Compression and Trigger Point Pressure Release on Upper Trapezius and Non-Specific Neck Pain. International Journal of Physical Education, Sports and Health, 6(4), 85-89.
3) Vispute, S., & Kumar, N. (2022). A Comparative Study of Immediate Effects of Myofascial Release Technique and Positional Release Technique on Trapezitis among the College Student. Int J Physiother Res, 10(3), 4243-49.
4) Yadav, T., & Gherwara, K. N. (2023). Effectiveness of upper limb and scapular stabilization exercises in college students suffering from recurrent trapezitis. MGM Journal of Medical Sciences, 10(2), 309-316.
5) Jawade, S., Chitale Jr, N., & Phansopkar, P. (2023). The effect of reciprocal inhibition techniques on pain, range of motion, and functional activities in patients with upper trapezitis. Cureus, 15(2).
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