The trapezius muscle also known as the traps is a broad triangular muscle located on the back of your neck and shoulders that helps support your head and shoulders. Our activities of daily living, as well as our profession can cause stress on your traps leading to trapezius strain. Trapezius strain can range from a minor pain to a severe condition that requires medical assistance. In this blog post, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about trapezius strain, its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options.
Trapezius strain can occur due to various reasons, including poor posture, sports injuries, lifting heavy weights or carrying heavy objects, and repetitive strain injury. The pain can range from a dull ache to an intense shooting pain that can impair your mobility and interfere with your daily life. The severity of the strain varies from person to person and depends on various factors such as the extent of the damage and your medical history.
If you are experiencing severe pain, swelling, and redness, it is essential to seek medical attention immediately. In severe cases, trapezius strain can lead to chronic pain and mobility issues, affecting your quality of life. A chiropractor or physiotherapist can diagnose the condition and provide appropriate medical attention to manage the pain and prevent the condition from recurring.
Chiropractors use spinal manipulations and massage to relieve the pain and tension in the muscles, joints, and nerves. They can also advise you on posture correction, stretching exercises, and lifestyle modifications to prevent the condition from worsening or recurring. Physiotherapists use exercise therapy, heat and cold therapy, and manual therapy to relieve the pain and improve your mobility.
In some cases, the doctor may recommend medications, such as over-the-counter pain relievers, muscle relaxants, and anti-inflammatory drugs, to manage the pain. They may also recommend cortisone injections to reduce inflammation and swelling.
Trapezius strain is a common condition that can cause severe pain and discomfort. If you are experiencing any symptoms of trapezius strain, such as neck pain, shoulder pain, or stiffness, it is essential to seek medical attention immediately. Chiropractors and physiotherapists can provide personalized care, including diagnosis, treatment, and advice on lifestyle modifications to manage the pain and prevent the condition from recurring. Remember, early intervention and proper treatment are crucial to ensuring a faster and effective recovery. So, take care of your body and avoid activities that can strain your muscles.
If you have any questions or would like to explore further, please book a free, no-charge online appointment with either myself, Dr. Burzin Rao, BSc (Hons), DC, or another Waterloo chiropractor at CARESPACE. We are happy to listen and are here to help!
