Tensed trapeze
The trapezius is a large, trapezoidal muscle of the upper body, extending from the occipital bone (base of the head) to the shoulder blades and lower thoracic vertebrae, covering about half the back. Its function is to control and stabilize the shoulder blade and neck, in conjunction with other muscles. The trapezius is anatomically divided into three parts: the upper trapezius, the middle trapezius and the lower trapezius. The most visible, triangle-shaped upper part extends from the shoulders to the neck and head. This part of the trapezius is a frequent area of pain, stiffness and tension, which may last a few days or longer. Symptoms reported in this area are generally the consequence of an underlying condition rather than pathology per se. Trapezius stiffness can sometimes be correlated with a specific event, such as a road accident, or more commonly with waking up after sleeping in an unusual position, but it is multifactorial and not always attributable to a particular cause. Many factors can be at the root of this symptom, such as poor posture, weakness, a sedentary lifestyle, but also monotonous, highly repetitive jobs or activities that put excessive pressure on the neck. This is why a holistic approach is essential in the diagnosis and treatment of patients suffering from neck strain.
Trapezius tension usually disappears spontaneously, with symptoms subsiding within a few days. Should the condition persist for longer, we advise you to consult a doctor. At Foxphysio, after a careful visit from one of our specialized doctors, you'll receive a specific diagnosis and a recovery plan tailored to your needs. Conservative treatment is generally the first line of treatment, consisting of rehabilitation, education and, if necessary, pharmacological intervention (e.g. drugs, injections, etc.). Our facilities are perfectly adapted to patients' needs, with four different environments - the pool, the gym, the movement analysis and re-education room, and the grounds - available to support your recovery process. In the early stages, the main aim of rehabilitation is to minimize symptoms. Mobility recovery and muscle activation usually progress at the same time as posture optimization. In the middle of rehabilitation, regaining strength and stability in the neck and upper limbs becomes the priority, as well as improving the overall quality of your movements to learn how to optimally coordinate neck and upper body movements. If you suffer from this pathology while practising a sport, rehabilitation on the field plays a fundamental role.