Back Clinic Neck Treatment Team. Dr. Alex Jimenezs collection of neck pain articles contain a selection of medical conditions and/or injuries regarding symptoms surrounding the cervical spine. The neck is made up of various complex structures; bones, muscles, tendons, ligaments, nerves, and other types of tissues. When these structures are damaged or injured as a result of improper posture, osteoarthritis, or even whiplash, among other complications, the pain and discomfort an individual experiences can be impairing. Through chiropractic care, Dr. Jimenez explains how the use of spinal adjustments and manual manipulations focuses on the cervical spine can greatly help relieve the painful symptoms associated with neck issues. For more information, please feel free to contact us at (915) 850-0900 or text to call Dr. Jimenez personally at (915) 540-8444.
The cervical spine has a casual relationship with the central nervous system as the brain and spinal cord works together to send neuron signals through the nerve pathways spread throughout the entire body. The cervical spine is part of the neck, where ligaments and muscles encompass the cervical joints to stabilize the head, neck, and shoulders. The neck has various muscles that support the head and can succumb to various injuries that can cause muscle strain and other associated symptoms that can affect the upper extremities of the body. Today’s article looks at the posterior cervical muscles, how trigger points affect the posterior cervical muscles, and how non-invasive treatments can help manage myofascial cervical pain. We refer patients to certified providers who specialize in musculoskeletal treatments to aid individuals suffering from myofascial trigger pain associated with the neck affecting the posterior cervical muscles. We also guide our patients by referring them to our associated medical providers based on their examination when appropriate. We ensure to find that education is the solution to asking our providers insightful questions. Dr. Jimenez DC observes this information as an educational service only. Disclaimer
What Are The Posterior Cervical Muscles?
Have you been experiencing random headaches that affect your day? Do you feel any tension in your neck? Or do you experience stiffness and limited mobility when turning your neck? Most of these symptoms are associated with trigger pain affecting the posterior cervical muscle on the neck. The posterior cervical muscles function in the neck’s anatomic region while protecting the cervical spine. The muscles in the cervical spine form a triangle on the neck while providing functionality and movement to the neck, the head, shoulder, and upper back. Some of the muscles that work together with the cervical spine include:
Levator scapulae
SCM (Sternocleidomastiod)
Trapezius
Erector spinae
Deep cervical flexors
Suboccipitals
Semispinalis
Splenius
These muscles and soft tissues provide stability to the neck and work together with the tendons and ligaments to rotate, extend, and retract the head, neck, shoulders, and upper back. To that point, if the neck muscles become strained, it can lead to various issues that can cause pain to the neck and cervical spine.
How Trigger Points Affect The Posterior Cervical Muscles
Studies reveal that a musculoskeletal disorder known as cervical myofascial pain causes the surrounding muscles in the neck and shoulder regions to become tender to the touch and evoke pain in different areas of the body. When the posterior cervical muscle has become strained from various issues like poor posture, over-exercising, getting involved in an auto accident, or have suffered from a degenerative condition, it can cause the muscles to be overused, hypersensitive, and stiff while potentially being at risk of developing trigger points along the neck and shoulder muscles. Trigger points are a bit problematic as they are associated with referred pain and can be either latent or active as they create tiny nodules along the taut muscle fibers in the area. Research studies reveal that referred pain from cervical myofascial pain can be elicited by active trigger points on the affected muscle. To that point, the active trigger points can mimic other pain symptoms along the upper extremities, making diagnosing myofascial pain challenging. Thankfully there are ways to manage trigger point pain associated with the posterior cervical muscles along the neck and cervical spine.
Exercises For Neck & Shoulder Pain-Video
Have you been experiencing stiffness along the sides of your neck or on your shoulders? Do headaches make it impossible to get through an entire day? Or have you been feeling tightness along your jawline? Many people with neck pain and its associated symptoms could risk developing myofascial trigger pain along the posterior cervical muscles. Having myofascial trigger pain associated with the posterior cervical muscle and affecting the neck and upper extremities can cause many people to be miserable; however, there are many ways that people can utilize to relieve the pain along the posterior cervical muscles and manage myofascial cervical pain associated with the neck. The video above provides various neck and shoulder pain exercises correlating with myofascial trigger points. To that point, finding non-invasive available treatments to manage myofascial cervical pain can help reduce the effects of pain along the neck and posterior cervical muscles.
Non-Invasive Treatments To Manage Myofascial Cervical Pain
Many people suffer from neck pain associated with myofascial cervical pain; many factors can contribute to developing tiny nodules along the posterior muscles. Studies reveal that activities, whether work-related or for entertainment, can yield repetitive stress on the muscle groups that cause chronic tension in the muscle fibers to form trigger points. To that point, myofascial trigger pain causes the taut muscle bands to be hyper-sensitive and affect the muscle area. Many people suffering from myofascial trigger pain can utilize non-invasive treatments to manage myofascial pain associated with the posterior cervical muscle. Some of the treatments that help manage myofascial cervical pain include:
Acupuncture
Trigger point release therapy
Chiropractic care
Heat therapy
Exercise/stretching
Many of these treatments help release the trigger points from the affected muscles and help prevent them from re-occurring on the affected muscles along the upper extremities.
Conclusion
The neck has many muscles, ligaments, and tissues that help support the upper extremities of the body. When issues begin to affect the functionality of the neck muscles, it can lead to the development of myofascial trigger pain in the posterior cervical muscles along the neck to cause painful symptoms. This can lead to overlapping chronic issues like stiffness and tenderness in the upper extremities. Non-invasive treatments can help alleviate the pain and manage the symptoms caused by myofascial cervical pain in the upper extremities of the body. This allows the affected muscle to return to its functionality and prevents future issues from affecting the body.
References
Alghadir, Ahmad H, et al. “Efficacy of Combination Therapies on Neck Pain and Muscle Tenderness in Male Patients with Upper Trapezius Active Myofascial Trigger Points.” BioMed Research International, Hindawi, 10 Mar. 2020, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7085833/.
Fernández-de-Las-Peñas, César, et al. “The Role of Myofascial Trigger Points in Musculoskeletal Pain Syndromes of the Head and Neck.” Current Pain and Headache Reports, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Oct. 2007, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17894927/.
Stathakios, James, and Michael A Carron. “Anatomy, Head and Neck, Posterior Cervical Region.” In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL), StatPearls Publishing, 27 July 2021, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK551521/.
Touma, Jeffrey, et al. “Cervical Myofascial Pain.” In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL), StatPearls Publishing, 4 July 2022, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK507825/.
The neck is the connector to the head and shoulders, allowing mobility and functionality to stabilize the head from dropping down. The neck is also part of the cervical spine, where many neuron pathways, ligaments, and muscles work with the central nervous system to provide sensory-motor signals to the brain. The neck muscles also work together with the shoulder and upper back muscles to function for the upper extremities. These are known as the splenius muscles and help support the cervical spine. However, like all muscles in the body, the neck can succumb to traumatic injuries or common factors that can cause the neck muscles to be overused, injured, and strained to cause the nerves to send out disruptive signals to the brain and issues to develop. Today’s article looks at the splenius muscles on the neck, how trigger points affect the splenius muscles, and how to manage neck pain associated with trigger points. We refer patients to certified providers who specialize in musculoskeletal treatments to aid individuals suffering from myofascial trigger pain associated with neck pain affecting the splenius muscles. We also guide our patients by referring them to our associated medical providers based on their examination when appropriate. We ensure to find that education is the solution to asking our providers insightful questions. Dr. Jimenez DC observes this information as an educational service only. Disclaimer
The Splenius Muscles On The Neck
Have you been experiencing muscle pain in your neck? What about feeling tightness on the sides of your neck when you move your head from side to side? Or do random headaches seem to pop out of nowhere and affect your day? Most of these symptoms are associated with neck pain affecting the splenius muscles and can cause overlapping issues affecting the neck and the upper back. The splenius muscles are split into two muscle groups: the splenius capitis and the splenius cervicis. Both of the splenius muscles each have a job for neck functionality. The splenius capitis provides rotation and extension to the head, while the splenius cervicis provides rotation and extends to the cervical spine. The splenius capitis fibers are connected with the SCM (sternocleidomastoid) muscles that help move the head. The splenius cervicis encompasses the upper three cervical vertebrae and attach their muscle fibers to scapulae muscles. Even though these two muscles offer different functions, they could potentially be involved in injuries that can cause neck and upper back issues.
How Trigger Points Affect The Splenius Muscles
One of the most common complaints many people seem to be impacted is shoulder and neck pain. Various factors can cause an impact on the shoulders and neck due to overusing the splenius muscles connected to the neck and shoulders and developing trigger points associated with the splenius muscles. Studies reveal that trigger points or myofascial pain can make the splenius muscles hypersensitive and tender along the taut band of the splenius muscles. To that point, the splenius muscles become palpable and produce localized pain to other structures along the neck, shoulders, and head. Trigger points are a bit complex to diagnose because they mimic other chronic issues that affect the body and potentially involve many common symptoms that could happen daily. Studies reveal that common symptoms like headaches are associated with trigger points along the head, neck, and shoulder muscles. Since trigger points are challenging to diagnose, they can make the taut band of the musculoskeletal fibers and become either active or latent when pressure is on the affected area. To that point, causes tension occurs in the body’s head, neck, and shoulders. Fortunately, various ways to manage trigger point pain are associated with neck pain along the splenius muscles.
Trigger Points & Splenius Muscles- Video
Have you been dealing with random headaches that randomly occur throughout the day? What about experiencing muscle stiffness and tenderness located on your neck and shoulders? Or have you been experiencing poor sleep throughout the night? Most of these symptoms are associated with trigger point pain associated with neck pain along the splenius muscles. The video above explains how trigger points affect the splenius muscles and some of the causes that lead to the development of trigger point pain along the splenius muscles. Many people dealing with trigger points associated with neck pain often explain to their doctors that they have been feeling muscle stiffness along their neck, causing limited mobility. Studies reveal that active myofascial trigger points along the neck and shoulder muscles elicited referred pain to contribute to symptoms of pain intensity, disability, and poor sleep quality to mechanical neck pain. To that point, many individuals try to incorporate various treatments to alleviate the symptoms and manage neck pain associated with trigger points.
Managing Neck Pain Associated With Trigger Points
Many people dealing with neck pain associated with trigger points along the splenius muscles often don’t realize that some causes affect how the muscles are used. Ordinary factors like poor posture, looking down at the phones, or leaning closer to any screens can cause strain on the splenius muscles. In contrast, traumatic factors like whiplash or auto accidents can inflict pain on the muscle fibers. Various ways to manage neck pain associated with trigger points are non-invasive unless the pain is severe. When a person goes to their primary doctor for a routine check-up, they describe the symptoms of pain affecting their bodies while the doctor examines them. Once the issue is diagnosed, many doctors will refer their patients to a pain specialist specializing in the matter. So say if a person is dealing with neck pain associated with trigger point pain along their splenius muscles that is causing them headaches, would be referred to a pain specialist like a chiropractor to relieve myofascial trigger pain along the splenius muscles that are suffering from spinal subluxation in the musculoskeletal system. Spinal adjustments allow the stiff muscles to become loose and even break up the adhesion of the trigger points on the muscle. Incorporating chiropractic care to treat neck pain associated with trigger points can bring back functionality to the body.
Conclusion
The neck allows the head to be mobile and help keeps it stable. As part of the cervical spine, the neck has many neuron pathways, ligaments, and muscles that work with the central nervous system to provide sensory-motor function. The muscles that provide functionality to the shoulders, neck, and upper back are called the splenius muscles. The splenius muscles consist of two groups: the capitis and cervicis, which have different jobs for neck functionality. However, like any muscle in the body may potentially be impacted by various issues that can cause neck and upper back issues. Common and traumatic issues can lead to the development of myofascial trigger pain along the neck muscles. To that point causes neck pain and disability to the neck. When this happens, various treatments are available to manage neck pain associated with myofascial pain and alleviate the symptoms, causing relief to the neck.
References
Chatchawan, Uraiwan, et al. “Characteristics and Distributions of Myofascial Trigger Points in Individuals with Chronic Tension-Type Headaches.” Journal of Physical Therapy Science, The Society of Physical Therapy Science, Apr. 2019, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6451952/.
Henson, Brandi, et al. “Anatomy, Back, Muscles – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf.” In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL), StatPearls Publishing, 10 Aug. 2021, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK537074/.
Muñoz-Muñoz , Sonsoles, et al. “Myofascial Trigger Points, Pain, Disability, and Sleep Quality in Individuals with Mechanical Neck Pain.” Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Oct. 2012, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23158466/.
Ribeiro, Daniel Cury, et al. “The Prevalence of Myofascial Trigger Points in Neck and Shoulder-Related Disorders: A Systematic Review of the Literature.” BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders, BioMed Central, 25 July 2018, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6060458/.
Everyone in the world has various expressions that reflect how they are feeling. From being excited, worried, sad, angry, and disgusted, facial expressions defy people who they are, what they eat, and how they look. Each of the different muscles that make up the face has other jobs to work at the various locations of the upper extremities. The muscles on the forehead and near the eyes help people see while opening, closing, and raising their eyebrows. The muscles around the nose help take in air to breathe. The muscles located in the jaw help people chew food and speak. The neck muscles help support the head and provide mobility. All these muscles have specific jobs, and when issues affect the upper body extremities, they can potentially lead to different problems. When environmental factors like stress, anxiety, or depression begin to affect the body, it can also affect its facial features, causing unwanted symptoms to develop. Today’s article focuses on myofascial trigger pain on the face, the signs and symptoms associated with myofascial facial pain, and how to manage myofascial facial pain. We refer patients to certified providers who specialize in musculoskeletal and oral treatments to aid individuals suffering from myofascial trigger pain affecting their facial muscles. We also guide our patients by referring them to our associated medical providers based on their examination when appropriate. We ensure to find that education is the solution to asking our providers insightful questions. Dr. Jimenez DC observes this information as an educational service only. Disclaimer
How Does Myofascial Trigger Pain Affect The Face?
Have you been experiencing pain-like symptoms in your jaw? What about feeling constant pressure around your nose or cheeks? Do you feel tenderness in certain body areas around your face? Many of these symptoms you are experiencing could potentially involve myofascial trigger pain affecting the facial muscles. Having myofascial trigger pain in the upper extremities of the body can be challenging, as studies reveal that myofascial pain syndrome is a muscular pain disorder that is often misunderstood as it involves referred pain from small, tender trigger pain within the muscle fibers causing pain in different locations of the body than the actual source. Myofascial trigger pain often mimics other chronic conditions that cause doctors to be confused when patients mention that they have been experiencing symptoms and it’s affecting their daily lives. For myofascial trigger pain affecting the face, studies reveal that facial pain associated with myofascial trigger pain can be classified in various ways that affect the nasal, orbital, and oral cavities, the temporomandibular joint, and the sinuses from underlying pathologies. Myofascial pain correlating with the face can have many trigger points that can make a person feel miserable and affect their daily lives.
Like the rest of the body, the face has numerous nerves that branched out from the brain in the central nervous system, providing sensory-motor functions to the muscles. The trigeminal nerves help give movement to the face, and when myofascial pain affects the facial regions, studies reveal that the causes can include:
Idiopathic factors
Trigeminal neuralgia
Dental problems
TMJ disorders
Cranial abnormalities
Infection
Acute muscle injury
Stress and anxiety
These signs are associated with myofascial facial pain due to common overlapping symptoms affecting each muscle around the face. Some of the symptoms related to myofascial facial pain include:
Tingling sensations
Throbbing pain
Headaches
Toothaches
Neck pain
Shoulder pain
Feeling stuffed up
Muscle tenderness
Chronic Facial Pain-Video
Have you been experiencing muscle tenderness in certain parts of your face? What about feeling stuffed up around the areas of your cheeks and nose? Or have you been feeling stiffness and pain along your jaw, neck, or shoulders? If you have been experiencing these pain symptoms, it could be facial pain associated with myofascial trigger pain. The video above overviews chronic facial pain and how it affects the head and neck. Research studies reveal that pain affecting the body for more than six months is considered chronic. Just like any other chronic pain symptoms in the body, chronic facial pain causes a neuropathic response to the central nervous system, making an injury hypersensitive and potentially involving associated symptoms from other chronic disorders. Myofascial dysfunction related to facial pain may become severe to activate trigger points along the facial muscle fibers, causing prickling sensations in the face. Luckily, there are available treatments for managing myofascial facial pain.
Management Of Myofascial Facial Pain
When managing myofascial pain associated with the face, many patients will go to their primary doctor and explain that they are experiencing pain and other symptoms that make them miserable. Doctors then examine the patient to see what is ailing them through a physical examination. Some doctors often utilize manual manipulation and other tools to diagnose that myofascial pain might be the cause. As stated earlier, myofascial pain associated with the face can be a bit complex as it can mimic other chronic conditions. Once the doctor diagnoses myofascial pain related to the face, they can refer their patients to pain specialists like chiropractors, physical therapists, physiatrists, and massage therapists to alleviate myofascial pain related to the face by examining where the causes are coming from. Pain specialists incorporate various techniques to relieve myofascial pain associated with the face:
Stretch & spray (Stretching the muscle and spraying a coolant spray to loosen tight muscles along the neck)
Putting pressure on the trigger point (This helps smooth out the affected muscle and fascia)
Gentle stretching exercises (Help strengthen the affected muscles)
Hot or cold compress (Helps relax the muscles and break up the adhesion from scar tissue)
Incorporating these treatments can help manage the symptoms associated with myofascial pain and can help alleviate muscle pain, thus preventing further issues from developing over time.
Conclusion
The facial muscles have specific jobs with different functions that help the body function properly. These jobs help various sections of the face by expressing how we feel, what we eat and taste, breath, and other jobs that define people. When issues begin to affect the upper extremities of the body, they can cause lead to different problems that affect the facial features of the face and cause unwanted symptoms to develop. This is known as myofascial pain and is often misunderstood,s since it can mimic other chronic conditions that affect the body. Different factors and symptoms associated with myofascial pain can become difficult to diagnose. Still, various techniques can help manage the symptoms over time to prevent further injuries from occurring on the face and the body.
References
Fricton, J R, et al. “Myofascial Pain Syndrome of the Head and Neck: A Review of Clinical Characteristics of 164 Patients.” Oral Surgery, Oral Medicine, and Oral Pathology, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Dec. 1985, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/3865133/.
Williams, Christopher G, et al. “Management of Chronic Facial Pain.” Craniomaxillofacial Trauma & Reconstruction, Thieme Medical Publishers, May 2009, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3052669/.
Yoon, Seung Zhoo, et al. “A Case of Facial Myofascial Pain Syndrome Presenting as Trigeminal Neuralgia.” Oral Surgery, Oral Medicine, Oral Pathology, Oral Radiology, and Endodontics, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 25 Dec. 2008, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19111486/.
Zakrzewska, Joanna M, and Troels S Jensen. “History of Facial Pain Diagnosis.” Cephalalgia : an International Journal of Headache, SAGE Publications, June 2017, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5458869/.
The lower jaw of the body has the mastication muscles surrounding the mandible and provides functionality to the jaw through chewing, moving the lower jaw up, down, left, and right, and speaking. The jaw also has joints known as the temporomandibular joints that slide back and forth to provide movement also. The jaw is also home to the teeth and tongue, which play a role in the mouth by consuming and grinding food into smaller bites to travel down to the gut system. Just like every joint and muscle in the body, common issues or injuries can affect the jaw and cause pain symptoms associated with the problem. Sometimes normal wear and tear can affect the joints in the jaw, or traumatic events can affect the surrounding muscles causing soreness in the jaw area. If the issue involving the jaw is not treated over time, it can lead to chronic disorders and overlap with other chronic disorders that can affect the whole body and the jaw. One of the jaw disorders is TMJ dysfunction, which can cause overlapping symptoms in the jaw and the body. Today’s article examines what TMJ dysfunction is, the signs and symptoms, and ways to manage TMJ dysfunction in the jaw. We refer patients to certified providers who specialize in musculoskeletal and oral treatments to aid individuals suffering from TMJ dysfunction affecting their jaws. We also guide our patients by referring them to our associated medical providers based on their examination when appropriate. We ensure to find that education is the solution to asking our providers insightful questions. Dr. Jimenez DC observes this information as an educational service only. Disclaimer
What Is TMJ Dysfunction?
Have you been experiencing muscle pain in your neck, shoulders, and jaw? What about tenderness in your cheek when you lightly touched it? Or do you have difficulty chewing or moving your jaw when speaking? Many of these symptoms are signs that you could be experiencing TMJ dysfunction in your jaw. TMJ dysfunction, or temporomandibular dysfunction, is part of a group of orofacial pain conditions that affects the jaw joint and muscle, thus causing overlapping issues in the lower jaw. TMJ dysfunction also affects the mastication muscles that help move the jaw by making the muscles hyperactive and causing referred pain to the rest of the body. Studies reveal that about 25% of the population does get affected by TMJ dysfunction since it is a degenerative musculoskeletal condition associated with morphological and functional jaw deformities.
The Signs & Symptoms Of TMJ Dysfunction On The Jaw
TMJ dysfunction may potentially not only cause jaw pain but can also affect the neck and shoulders connected to the cervical spine. Studies reveal that TMJ dysfunction is correlated with neck disability, jaw dysfunction, and muscle tenderness in many individuals that suffer pain with or without TMJ dysfunction. TMJ dysfunction is associated with these issues because the jaw structures are affected by trigger points along the neck and jaw. To that point, TMJ dysfunction is often accompanied by back, joint, and abdominal pain. But how would TMJ dysfunction correlate with these pain issues? Studies reveal that disturbances in the upper body extremities may cause an increase in muscle tension associated with the whole-body imbalance that is potentially causing TMJ dysfunction. Some of the related symptoms of TMJ dysfunction in the jaw include:
Pain in neck and shoulders
The jaw becomes “locked” in an open or closed position
Headaches
Earaches
Muscle tenderness in the jaw
Having difficulty chewing
Swelling on the side of the face
Body imbalance
Exercises For TMJ Dysfunction- Video
Have you been experiencing muscle tenderness in your jaw? What about having some difficulty chewing or speaking? Do you hear popping sounds when your open or close your mouth? Some of these symptoms are associated with a musculoskeletal jaw disorder known as TMJ (temporomandibular joint) dysfunction. The video above shows the top 3 exercises for TMJ dysfunction that can help alleviate pain from the jaw, face, or ear. TMJ dysfunction is a musculoskeletal disorder that affects the mastication muscles and causes referred pain to the neck, head, and ear. TMJ dysfunction is tricky to diagnose since trigger points associated with TMJ may also affect the teeth, causing tooth pain in the oral-facial region. This is known as somato-visceral, where the affected muscle correlates with the corresponding organ. Thankfully, there are ways to manage TMJ dysfunction and its associated symptoms.
Ways To Manage TMJ Dysfunction In The Jaw
Many people can use various ways to manage TMJ dysfunction in the jaw to alleviate the pain. Some non-surgical treatments that individuals can incorporate include:
Heat or cold pack applied to the side of the face
Gentle stretching exercises for the jaw
Eating soft foods
Wearing a night guard while sleeping
If the pain from TMJ dysfunction still affects the individual, therapies like chiropractic care can help manage the symptoms. Chiropractic care can effectively treat TMJ dysfunction, especially spinal subluxation or misalignment in the cervical region. Chiropractors will fully evaluate the patient’s temporomandibular joint and surrounding muscles, joints, and ligaments to identify the TMJ problem and the underlying causes. To that point, a chiropractor may suggest a range of treatments, which includes stretches and exercises to not only alleviate pain and stiffness in the jaw point but also to bring back balance to the body. This allows minimal rubbing and friction in the jaw joint.
Conclusion
Overall, TMJ dysfunction is a musculoskeletal jaw disorder that affects the mastication muscles and causes referred pain to different areas in the upper extremities of the body. Some of the symptoms of TMJ dysfunction can make it difficult for the jaw to open or close, causing pain, headaches, and muscle tenderness in the neck and shoulders. To that point, individuals suffering from TMJ dysfunction may potentially deal with pain-related symptoms. Various non-surgical treatments are available to manage TMJ dysfunction and reduce associated pain symptoms affecting the jaw.
References
Kim, Doori, et al. “The Relationship between Spinal Pain and Temporomandibular Joint Disorders in Korea: A Nationwide Propensity Score-Matched Study – BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders.” BioMed Central, BioMed Central, 29 Dec. 2019, bmcmusculoskeletdisord.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12891-019-3003-4.
Murphy, Meghan K, et al. “Temporomandibular Disorders: A Review of Etiology, Clinical Management, and Tissue Engineering Strategies.” The International Journal of Oral & Maxillofacial Implants, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 2013, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4349514/.
Silveira, A, et al. “Jaw Dysfunction Is Associated with Neck Disability and Muscle Tenderness in Subjects with and without Chronic Temporomandibular Disorders.” BioMed Research International, Hindawi Publishing Corporation, 2015, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4391655/.
Walczyńska-Dragon, Karolina, et al. “Correlation between TMD and Cervical Spine Pain and Mobility: Is the Whole Body Balance TMJ Related?” BioMed Research International, Hindawi Publishing Corporation, 2014, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4090505/.
The neck is vital in keeping the head upright in a casual relationship with the cervical spine. The neck is home to the thyroid organ and the surrounding muscles that help support the neck to the rest of the body. One of the muscles that help support the neck is the sternocleidomastoid muscle. When traumatic forces begin to affect the neck, over time can lead to the development of chronic conditions associated with pain. When individuals start to feel pain affecting their neck, it can cause them to be miserable and find ways to relieve the pain they are experiencing. Today’s article focuses on the sternocleidomastoid muscle, how trigger pain affects this muscle, and ways to relieve SCM pain. We refer patients to certified providers who specialize in musculoskeletal treatments to aid individuals suffering from SCM associated with trigger pain along the neck. We also guide our patients by referring them to our associated medical providers based on their examination when appropriate. We ensure to find that education is the solution to asking our providers insightful questions. Dr. Jimenez DC observes this information as an educational service only. Disclaimer
What Is The Sternocleidomastoid Muscle?
Have you been experiencing pain along the sides of your neck? What about limited mobility when you turn your neck from side to side? Or do headaches seem to worsen throughout the entire day? Some of these symptoms are associated with pain along the neck and could affect the surrounding muscles that are connected. One of the surrounding muscles that sit behind the thyroid is known as SCM or sternocleidomastoid muscle. The sternocleidomastoid muscle is a long muscle with dual innervation and multiple functions in the neck. The SCM is connected to the trapezius muscle that helps flex the neck, pulling the head forward while bringing the chin down to the chest. The SCM and the trapezius muscle work together to help stabilize and fix the head position while the host is talking or eating. When factors affect the neck over time, the SCM also gets involved.
How Does Trigger Pain Affect The Sternocleidomastoid?
When factors affect SCM associated with the neck, many issues will start to affect the neck and overlap pain near the eyes, ears, sides of the cheeks, and forehead. Studies reveal that SCM may develop myofascial trigger points in the head, causing referred pain. Trigger points are usually formed when traumatic forces affect certain areas in the body. For SCM to be affected by trigger pain, tiny knots along the taut band of the SCM muscle fibers become sensitive to pressure when compressed, and many people often describe the pain as deep and dull. To that point, the symptoms associated with SCM trigger pain may appear in numerous combinations or together depending on how severe the pain is on the person. Some of the symptoms related to SCM trigger pain include:
Headaches (sinus, cluster, or tension)
Sore throat
Ear pain (popping sounds in the ears)
Blurred vision
Vertigo
Dizzyness
Balance issues
Muscle soreness
SCM Pain & Trigger Points- Video
Have you been dealing with headaches throughout the entire day? What about muscle tenderness in certain areas near your neck or shoulders? Or have you been feeling dizzy that it is affecting your daily activities? Many people with these symptoms may be dealing with SCM pain associated with trigger pain. The video above offers an insightful overview of how does trigger pain may be involved with SCM pain. SCM or sternocleidomastoid muscle is a long muscle that surrounds the sides of the neck and is connected to the trapezius muscle. When factors begin to affect the SCM, the muscle is at risk of developing trigger pain along the muscle fibers. Studies reveal that trigger pain along the SCM may affect SCM’s normal muscle functions, like chewing due to hyperactivity. Fortunately, there are ways to relieve SCM pain associated with trigger pain affecting the neck.
Ways To Relieve SCM Pain In The Neck
When it comes to SCM pain associated with trigger pain along the neck, many individuals find ways to relieve the related symptoms that are causing the pain. Some individuals will take over-the-counter medication to relieve their neck, shoulders, and head pain. At the same time, others do stretches to release the tension on their head, neck, and shoulders. However, trigger pain is a bit complex and challenging to diagnose since it mimics other conditions that affect the body. As luck would have it, many doctors will refer musculoskeletal specialists like massage therapists, physical therapists, and chiropractors who can help relieve SCM pain in the neck. Studies reveal that a combination of physiotherapy, classical massages, and stretching exercises can be applied to alleviate SCM pain in the neck. By stretching and massaging the SCM, many individuals can begin to feel pain relief in their neck, increase their range of motion, and have endurance in their neck. Integrating these various treatments for the SCM (sternocleidomastoid muscle) pain in the neck can help revitalize a person’s sense of well-being without being in pain.
Conclusion
The SCM, or sternocleidomastoid muscle, is a long muscle that sits behind the thyroid organ and is connected with the trapezius muscle. This muscle helps stabilize and holds the head position while flexing the neck and bringing the chin down to the chest. When environmental or traumatic factors affect the neck muscles, it can lead to chronic conditions over time, thus inflicting pain and tenderness along the SCM. These are known as trigger points and can be hard to diagnose due to them mimicking other chronic symptoms associated with the neck, head, and shoulders. Thankfully, various treatments like physiotherapy, stretching exercises, and classical massages can help relieve the trigger points along the SCM and relieve the neck and surrounding muscles.
References
Bordoni, Bruno, and Matthew Varacallo. “Anatomy, Head and Neck, Sternocleidomastoid Muscle.” In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL), StatPearls Publishing, 5 Apr. 2022, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK532881/.
Büyükturan, Buket, et al. “The Effects of Combined Sternocleidomastoid Muscle Stretching and Massage on Pain, Disability, Endurance, Kinesiophobia, and Range of Motion in Individuals with Chronic Neck Pain: A Randomized, Single-Blind Study.” Musculoskeletal Science & Practice, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 12 June 2021, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34147954/.
Kohno, S, et al. “Pain in the Sternocleidomastoid Muscle and Occlusal Interferences.” Journal of Oral Rehabilitation, U.S. National Library of Medicine, July 1988, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/3171759/.
Missaghi, Babak. “Sternocleidomastoid Syndrome: A Case Study.” The Journal of the Canadian Chiropractic Association, Canadian Chiropractic Association, Sept. 2004, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1769463/.
The body incorporates different muscles that have specific jobs to help mobilize the skeletal joints while providing function to the arms, neck, legs, and back. Many individuals use their muscles for everyday uses like lifting and carrying objects, moving from one place to another, and protecting vital organs from damage. To that point, issues like traumatic events, injuries, and environmental factors can affect the body and cause damage to the muscles. When the muscles are affected by these factors, tiny knots can form along the taut muscle band that can cause painful symptoms that affect specific areas in the body. One of the muscles affected by pain is the trapezius muscle, known as the “coat hanger” muscle, which can be associated with chronic symptoms of myofascial pain syndrome. Today’s article examines the trapezius muscle, how myofascial pain affects the trapezius muscle, and how to manage myofascial trapezius pain. We refer patients to certified providers specializing in musculoskeletal treatments to aid individuals suffering from trapezius muscle pain associated with myofascial pain. We also guide our patients by referring them to our associated medical providers based on their examination when it’s appropriate. We find that education is the solution to asking our providers insightful questions. Dr. Jimenez DC provides this information as an educational service only. Disclaimer
What Is The Trapezius Muscle?
Have you experienced pain in your neck, shoulders, or mid-upper back? Do you feel headaches occurring near your temples? What about tenderness in certain areas of your body? Some of these symptoms may appear in your trapezius muscles. The trapezius muscle is located across the back that looks like a simple trapezoid with upper, middle, and lower muscle fibers that have different functions for the upper-middle back, shoulders, and neck. While the entire trapezius muscle helps rotates, elevate, and retract the scapula while extending the head and neck, and turning the chin by itself. At the same time, the entire muscle can help with assisting the extension of the cervical and thoracic spine.
Upper Trapezius muscles: allow the shoulders to rise, bend the head and neck, and help support the weight of the upper extremities of the body, including the arms.
Middle Trapezius muscles: assist with flexion and abduction of the arms around the shoulders at a nearly full range.
Lower Trapezius muscles: Helps retract the scapula while rotating the glenoid fossa upwards by decompressing the vertebral borders of the scapula. These fibers help assist the flexion and abduction of the arms.
When traumatic forces or injuries affect the trapezius muscles, painful symptoms begin to affect the muscles, causing them to be tender to the touch and affecting different areas in the body.
How Does Myofascial Pain Affect The Trapezius Muscle?
When traumatic forces or injuries affect the trapezius muscles, certain parts of the shoulders, neck, and upper-mid back will experience pain-related symptoms. When people experience headaches and shoulder and neck pain in their bodies while feeling tenderness in their trapezius muscles, this is known as referred pain associated with myofascial pain. Myofascial pain is when tiny knots along the taut muscle bands begin to make the muscle area tender to the touch. Individuals who suffer from myofascial pain in their trapezius muscles might experience hyperirritable spots that inflict pain and motor dysfunction. Studies reveal that individuals who work in food services may have symptoms of shoulder pain associated with myofascial pain due to repetitive motions on the upper trapezius muscles affecting their upper bodies. Myofascial trigger pain is a bit challenging to diagnose since the pain can be in different locations and mimic various ailments in the body. To that point, when the trapezius muscles are affected by trigger pain may potentially be involved with cervical myofascial pain. Cervical myofascial pain is a disorder that causes pain from muscle overuse or trauma in the neck. When the pain affects the neck muscles, it can travel down to the trapezius muscles causing tenderness and sensitivity in the affected muscle area. Stress, postural mechanics, or repetitive movements can develop myofascial pain syndrome and affect the surrounding muscles.
Trapezius Trigger Points- Video
Have you felt sore around your shoulders, neck, and upper-mid back? What about muscle tenderness in certain areas of your body? Do you feel tension along your neck or near the temples of your head? If you have been dealing with any of these symptoms, then you might be experiencing myofascial trapezius pain. The video above explains how trigger points from traumatic events can affect the trapezius muscle and cause referred pain that overlaps other conditions that may affect the body. Studies reveal that trigger points in the head and neck muscles of many suffering individuals have tension-type headaches. Tension-type headaches are one of the symptoms associated with myofascial trapezius pain. Some of the other symptoms related to myofascial pain affecting the trapezius muscle include:
Deep aching pain
Stiffness
Muscle spasms
Tightness around the shoulder and neck
Tenderness along the shoulders, neck, and upper back
Occipital headaches
How To Manage Myofascial Trapezius Pain
When many individuals suffer from myofascial trapezius pain, many would go to their primary doctor and explain to them that they are experiencing tension headaches constantly. Since myofascial pain is associated with the trapezius muscle is a bit complex and challenging for doctors to diagnose since every person’s pain is different. Many doctors will refer their patients to associated specialists like physical therapists, massage therapists, or chiropractors to determine where the pain is located along the trapezius muscle. Different treatments can help alleviate stiff muscles, and studies reveal that spinal manipulative therapy can help manage chronic pain from myofascial origins. Spinal subluxations or misalignment could potentially involve the corresponding spinal nerve root causing antinociceptive effects to the tender muscle, thus causing pain to the trapezius muscle. Utilizing various treatments to treat myofascial trapezius pain can provide individuals with beneficial relief from their pain along with managing their associated symptoms.
Conclusion
The trapezius muscle is a large superficial trapezoid-shaped muscle located in the back. The upper, middle, and lower muscle fibers have different functions in the head, neck, shoulders, and arms. The trapezius muscle also helps with assisting the extension of the cervical and thoracic spine. When traumatic events or injuries affect the trapezius muscle, it can be developed over time to create trigger points along the taut muscle band of the trapezius muscle and cause referred pain to the upper extremities of the body. Luckily various treatments can help manage the associated pain symptoms from myofascial trapezius pain and can help many individuals get back on their health and wellness journey.
References
Fernández-de-Las-Peñas, César, et al. “Myofascial Trigger Points and Their Relationship to Headache Clinical Parameters in Chronic Tension-Type Headache.” Headache, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Sept. 2006, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16942471/.
Hwang, Ui-Jae, et al. “Predictors of Upper Trapezius Pain with Myofascial Trigger Points in Food Service Workers: The Strobe Study.” Medicine, Wolters Kluwer Health, June 2017, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5500039.
Laframboise, Michelle A, et al. “Effect of Two Consecutive Spinal Manipulations in a Single Session on Myofascial Pain Pressure Sensitivity: A Randomized Controlled Trial.” The Journal of the Canadian Chiropractic Association, Canadian Chiropractic Association, June 2016, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4915475/.
Ourieff, Jared, et al. “Anatomy, Back, Trapezius – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf.” In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL), StatPearls Publishing, 26 July 2021, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK518994/.
Touma, Jeffrey, et al. “Cervical Myofascial Pain – Statpearls – NCBI Bookshelf.” In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL), StatPearls Publishing, 4 July 2022, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK507825/.
The neck ensures that the head is upright in the body while providing mobility to rotate, bend, and tilt in various directions. The neck is part of the cervical spine and provides sensory-motor functions from the nerve pathways spread out along the shoulders and upper back. When traumatic events or injuries affect the cervical spine and cause pain to the neck over time, however, if not treated, it can lead to problematic symptoms associated with muscle pain. Neck pain can lead to muscle stiffness and cause myofascial trigger pain associated with referred pain along the rest of the upper body. Today’s article looks at the effects of neck pain, how it is associated with myofascial trigger pain, and ways to manage neck pain associated with myofascial trigger pain. We refer patients to certified providers specializing in musculoskeletal treatments to aid individuals suffering from neck pain associated with myofascial trigger pain. We also guide our patients by referring them to our associated medical providers based on their examination when it’s appropriate. We find that education is the solution to asking our providers insightful questions. Dr. Jimenez DC provides this information as an educational service only. Disclaimer
The Effects Of Neck Pain
Have you been feeling muscle stiffness around your neck and shoulders? Do you experience random headaches that affect your day? What about feeling tingling sensations along your arms and hands? These symptoms are associated with neck pain and can affect many individuals if not treated over time. Many people who suffer from neck pain will feel muscle stiffness that affects not only the sides of the neck but around the shoulders and their upper back. Studies reveal that neck pain is a multifactorial musculoskeletal disorder that affects the worldwide population and can become a chronic problem. Risk factors associated with the contributing development of neck pain include:
Stress
Poor posture
Anxiety
Sleep position
Neuromusculoskeletal disorders
Auto accidents
Traumatic events
Many of these risk factors associated with neck pain can cause pain symptoms and cause pain in different locations of the body, making diagnosing the pain source problematic for doctors.
Neck Pain Associated With Myofascial Trigger Pain
Since neck pain is common for many individuals, one of the symptoms associated with muscle stiffness and tenderness is myofascial trigger pain overlapping neck pain. Studies reveal that the formation of trigger points is caused when various physical activities begin to yield repetitive stress or cause micro-tears in the definite muscle groups that can cause tension within the muscle fibers. To that point, knots in the taut band of the muscles become hypersensitive and produce referred pain, tenderness, motor dysfunction, and autonomic phenomena. When the neck suffers from a traumatic event that affects the spine, over time can create trigger points or myofascial pain. It is difficult to diagnose where the pain is located in the body because myofascial trigger pain often mimics other pain conditions. It can confuse many individuals as they think they are suffering from one pain, but it’s a different pain that affects their body. Other studies reveal that individuals with myofascial pain syndrome associated with neck pain have a tender point within the tight muscular band, causing local discomfort. To that point, myofascial pain can cause referral pain in remote areas like cervical spine disorders like herniation can often be confused with myofascial pain when there is referral pain in the upper extremities of the body. Some of the symptoms associated with myofascial trigger pain that affects the neck include:
Deep, aching pain
Headaches
Muscle tenderness in the neck or shoulders
Tingling sensation or numbness down the arms and hands
Muscle stiffness
Neck Pain & Trigger Points- Video
Are you experiencing numbness that is running down your shoulders to your hands? What about muscle stiffness along the sides of the neck or shoulders? Or do headaches seem to pop out of nowhere and affect your day? You could risk suffering from neck pain associated with myofascial trigger pain. The video above explains how neck pain is associated with trigger points and how to trigger pain can be primary or secondary to neck pain. Studies reveal that myofascial pain syndrome is a common muscular pain disorder that is misunderstood and involves referred pain to form minor, tender trigger points within the muscles. To that point, myofascial pain associated with neck pain may be consistent with specific patterns of pain associated with each trigger point, contributing factors like emotional, postural, and behavioral factors that cause tension in the neck and frequently related symptoms from various conditions make diagnosing difficult. Since myofascial trigger points are complex and mimic other conditions that affect a different body part, many believe that different ailments affect their body than the actual ailment itself. Thankfully there are ways to manage neck pain associated with myofascial trigger pain and relieve muscle pain.
Ways To Manage Neck Pain Associated With Myofascial Trigger Pain
Since myofascial trigger pain associated with the neck can be a bit complex and challenging to diagnose, many doctors will refer patients to a physical therapist, a chiropractor, or another spine specialist to examine the trigger points causing neck pain. Various treatments can range from home remedies to severe muscle injections, depending on how severe the injuries are since everyone’s pain is different. Some of the available treatments that can reduce and manage myofascial neck pain include:
Exercising (helps stretch and strengthen neck and upper back muscles)
Massage (helps loosen stiff muscles in the neck and shoulders)
Heat therapy (helps relax and increase blood flow to the affected area)
Chiropractic care (uses spinal manipulation to prevent further pain issues from happening)
Acupuncture (helps to relax the trigger point and relieve pain)
Incorporating these various treatments can provide beneficial relief to those suffering from myofascial neck pain and help manage the symptoms associated with the body.
Conclusion
The neck provides mobility to the head as it can rotate, bend, and tilt in various directions while providing sensory-motor functions to the shoulders and upper back from the nerve roots in the cervical spine. When traumatic forces impact the neck, myofascial trigger pain can lead to neck pain. Myofascial trigger pain associated with neck pain is where tiny knots in the affected neck muscles become tender and stiff, which causes referred pain to different locations in the body. Myofascial neck pain is challenging to diagnose but manageable to treat with various treatments and techniques that can release the knots from the affected muscle and prevent future symptoms from happening. This allows many individuals to feel relief from their neck pain and continue their wellness journey.
References
Alghadir, Ahmad H, et al. “Efficacy of Combination Therapies on Neck Pain and Muscle Tenderness in Male Patients with Upper Trapezius Active Myofascial Trigger Points.” BioMed Research International, Hindawi, 10 Mar. 2020, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7085833/.
Ezzati, Kamran, et al. “Prevalence of Cervical Myofascial Pain Syndrome and Its Correlation with the Severity of Pain and Disability in Patients with Chronic Non-Specific Neck Pain.” The Archives of Bone and Joint Surgery, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mar. 2021, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8121028/.
Fricton, J R, et al. “Myofascial Pain Syndrome of the Head and Neck: A Review of Clinical Characteristics of 164 Patients.” Oral Surgery, Oral Medicine, and Oral Pathology, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Dec. 1985, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/3865133/.
Kazeminasab, Somaye, et al. “Neck Pain: Global Epidemiology, Trends and Risk Factors.” BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders, BioMed Central, 3 Jan. 2022, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8725362/.
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