The trapezoid muscle, or trapezius, connects the upper spine and neck to the shoulder blades. Contraction of this muscle allows a person to lift the shoulder, such as when shrugging. A pulled muscle, or strain, is a common injury that occurs when the muscle is stretched or torn, according to the National Institutes of Health. A strained trapezius commonly occurs when weightlifting, lifting heavy objects or when carrying heavy objects on the shoulders. Treatments are conservative, but surgery may be necessary in severe cases.
Medications
MayoClinic.com states that medications may be used to treated a pulled trapezoid muscle. Specifically, a doctor may recommend nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as naproxen and ibuprofen to reduce pain and inflammation around the pulled trapezoid muscle. Many of these medications are available over-the-counter (OTC), but a stronger prescribed NSAID may be necessary if the pull is severe. Healthy patients should be aware of serious side effects of taking NSAIDs that include stomach pain, bloody vomit, bloody stool, dark urine, clay-colored stools or heart problems. Furthermore, patients with heart, liver, kidney or stomach disease should avoid taking these medications to prevent serious complications. A patient should see his doctor if NSAIDs do not provide relief after a few days of use.
Ice Therapy
Ice therapy may be an effective treatment for a pulled trapezoid muscle, states MayoClinic.com. Ice is effective because it causes blood vessels to shrink, which reduces swelling along the injured muscle. A reduction in swelling can offer comfort to the patient, and reduced swelling will allow the body to heal the injured trapezoid muscle. Furthermore, ice numbs the muscle, which can help relieve pain. An ice pack or a pack of frozen vegetables should be applied to the injured area for 20 minutes, then removed for 20 minutes. This cycle can be repeated as often as possible throughout the day.
Surgery
Surgery may be necessary to repair a trapezoid muscle so severely damaged that it cannot heal on its own. Risks of trapezoid muscle surgery include infection of the wound site, excessive bleeding, blood clot and nerve or muscle damage. Thus, a patient should thoroughly discuss the risks and benefits of this surgery before proceeding.
