Living with back pain is a challenge that millions of people face every day. One common source of back pain is trapezius strain. The strain in the trapezius muscle can be caused by a variety of factors such as stress, poor posture, overuse, or even injury. Dealing with the condition can be complex, and many people wonder whether the pain subsides when one is resting. In this blog post, we will consider whether trapezius strain hurts when resting, how chiropractic care and physiotherapy can help improve your condition, and some tips to manage the pain at home.
The first symptom of trapezius strain is pain, which can be experienced in the neck, upper back, and shoulders. The pain may vary in intensity from dull ache to severe and stabbing, and it may be constant or come and go. Usually, the pain becomes worse when your trapezius muscle is stretched, or you lift heavy objects. People with trapezius strain also experience other symptoms such as stiffness, soreness, muscle spasms, and reduced range of motion. However, it is not uncommon to experience less discomfort when resting, as there is less pressure exerted on the affected area when lying down.
While resting may bring some relief, it does not mean that you should give up being active altogether. A combination of chiropractic care and physiotherapy is a highly effective approach to managing trapezius strain. Chiropractic care focuses on realignment of bones, muscles, and the entire musculoskeletal system of your body. It can help relieve pressure on your nerves and muscles and restore your posture. On the other hand, physiotherapy involves exercises and stretches that can increase strength and flexibility, making your body more resilient to injury. These two practices work hand in hand to alleviate the pain of trapezius strain over time.
There are certain actions that you can take to manage trapezius strain pain at home. One of the most effective treatments for trapezius strain is simply resting the affected area. When sitting, align your back comfortably on a chair that offers good lumbar support. Additionally, applying heat or ice can help relieve the pain. Apply ice during the first 48 hours, and after that time, use heat. Over-the-counter pain medications such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or naproxen can temporarily reduce the pain as well.
Another effective way to manage the pain is to practice good posture. Try not to slouch or hunch your shoulders, as this will increase the pressure on your trapezius muscle. When sitting down, it is vital to sit on a chair with a supportive backrest and adjust your shoulders and back to get into the proper alignment. You might also want to look into ergonomic products such as a standing desk or a stylus. Such items can help you maintain proper posture, which will go a long way in reducing your discomfort.
In conclusion, trapezius strain can cause intense discomfort, but resting can often bring a relief from the pain. However, this alone is not sufficient. A combination of chiropractic care and physiotherapy, along with stretching, exercise, good posture, and over-the-counter pain medications, can help improve the condition significantly. As always, it is best to seek the advice of a qualified healthcare professional before embarking on any treatment to ensure that it is safe and appropriate for you. If you’re experiencing trapezius muscle pain, schedule an appointment with a chiropractor or a physiotherapist, who can help you develop a personalized treatment plan that is tailored to your needs.
If you have any questions or would like to explore further, please book a free, no-charge online appointment with either myself, Nitin Nair, BPT, R/TRO DIP, PT, or another Kitchener physiotherapist at CARESPACE. We are happy to listen and are here to help!
