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Trapezius Swelling
Hi I have swelling in the trapezius area for the last onemonth after I did some rowing exercises with wrong form. The upper back behind the trapezius also feels stiff. Did mri of shoulder and cervical spine and mri said there was no mass lesion over the trapezius muscle. The physiotherapist I am consulting examined and said that there are muscle knots in the trapezius and suggested dry needling to release the muscle knots. Is it advisable to undergo the same ? Is it okay to get dry needling done for the trapezius swelling ?
Answers (16)
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Since your MRI has ruled out any mass lesion and the symptoms started after rowing with improper form, this does sound more like trapezius muscle overuse with trigger points/muscle spasm rather than a dangerous swelling. Muscle knots and localized tightness in the upper trapezius are quite common after repetitive strain or faulty exercise mechanics.
Dry needling can be helpful in selected cases for reducing trigger points, muscle tightness and pain, especially when done by a trained physiotherapist. Many patients experience relief in stiffness and improved mobility after a few sessions. However, it should usually be combined with posture correction, stretching, scapular strengthening and correction of rowing technique rather than relying on dry needling alone.
If the area is actively inflamed, very swollen, red, hot or highly tender, reassessment may be needed before proceeding.
Next Steps
Continue physiotherapy with posture and scapular strengthening exercises
• Avoid heavy rowing or upper back overload temporarily
• Discuss risks/benefits of dry needling with your physiotherapist
• Start gradual stretching of trapezius and upper thoracic region
• Correct exercise form before returning to gym activities
Health Tips
Mild soreness after dry needling can occur for 24-48 hours. Ensure the procedure is done by a qualified professional using sterile technique. Long-term improvement depends more on muscle balance and movement correction than only releasing trigger points.
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Yes, it’s absolutely fine to get it done. Does your physiotherapist plan to combine dry needling with specific stretching or strengthening exercises to prevent the knots from returning?
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Hi
According to your chief complaints and MRI report ruling out any mass lesion suggest inflammation of the trapezius muscle due to overuse.
Dry needling should only be considered after pain and swelling reduction. Otherwise it can worsen the pain.
Next Steps
Start with moist heat therapy twice or thrice a day for 10-15 mins.
The initial physiotherapy treatment should involve ultrasound and TENS for reduction of pain, swelling, and muscle stiffness. This can be followed by dry needling, posture correction exercises, and stretching. But only dry needling will not help.
Health Tips
Prevent trapezius muscle overuse and maintain a good neck and back posture. For further advise and structured physiotherapy plan please book a consultation.
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trapezius muscle spasm/trigger points from overuse.
Yes, dry needling can help in releasing knots, but it should be part of a complete rehab plan, not the only treatment.
Also focus on:
✔️ Posture correction & ergonomic changes
✔️ Stretching (upper traps/levator scapula)
✔️ Scapular & upper back strengthening
✔️ Heat therapy for stiffness
Next Steps
Only dry needling without strengthening may give temporary relief.
Health Tips
With proper physio approach, this is fully manageable.
You can connect for a structured plan to prevent recurrence.
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Yes dry needling is the best therapy .I do give once pain resolve along with checking nutrion profile .dry needling plus physiotherapy exercise will gives you long term relief
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Your symptoms suggest trapezius muscle spasm with trigger points (knots) due to overuse and wrong exercise form.
MRI ruling out any mass is a good sign.
Regarding dry needling:
It can be helpful for trigger point release if done by a skilled therapist
My advice:
• First focus on posture correction and proper exercise therapy
• Start scapular strengthening and stretching
• Use heat therapy for stiffness
• Avoid overloading the upper trapezius again
Dry needling can be considered
Do not rely only on passive treatment. Long-term relief depends on muscle balance and correction of movement pattern
If you want, I can guide you with a structured plan to resolve this properly
Dr Rajesh Pal, PT, PhD
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Greetings ma'am, in the specific case please mention your occupation as it would be helpful for any therapist to make a good clinical diagnosis, secondly dry needling has been seen less effective if the not specific fibers if muscles have inflamed, moreover the rowing exercises may have contributed to your pain if there is no history of injury .
Next Steps
1) Try to consult a good physical therapist.
2) If having continuous pain get a consultation from orthopecian.
3) Try to use hot water formentation with towel . steps - A) Dip the towel in hot water
2) rinse it for 30 sec,
3) Apply on the affected part .
Health Tips
1)Don't use boiling water
2)make an appointment with a good physical therapist
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Hi, first you need to check whether it is swelling or fibrous tissue nodules. If it is swelling, it’s better to avoid dry needling and focus on reducing inflammation first. However, if it is a simple nodule formation, then you can go ahead with dry needling.
Next Steps
Get a proper assessment to find out the type of problem.
Health Tips
Consult online if you still have any doubt.
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Consult in person for proper assessment to get proper treatment
Till then rest icing twice a day will help regulate the pain
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Yes advisable to go for needling...but first you should just ice and rest...let the swelling sybside then go for prooer rehab sessions
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Dr. Neetu Rathi (PT)
Physiotherapist
17 yrs exp
Gurgaon
Greetings from Rid of Pain Physiotherapy
If your upper trapezius is stiff, then it can be due to imbalance in the group of muscles and postural imbalance. So clinically the whole shoulder girdle and neck need to look after. Then the exercises plan will help to resolve the whole story.dry needling is good for the trigger point as your physio has adviced. Give some time to solve all the issues
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Dr. Saswati Nanda (PT)
Physiotherapist
11 yrs exp
Delhi
Hey there!
I have to check your MRI and visual assessment. Kindly book online session with me.
Regards
Your physio
Next Steps
need more information
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Ms. Shefali Gandotra (PT)
Physiotherapist
20 yrs exp
Jammu
Please consult online for proper assessment and treatment plan accordingly, until then you can start with moist heat to be given at that trapezius and upper back followed by volini spray
Next Steps
Maintain correct posture
Health Tips
Neck and upper back stretches
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Dr. Afsa Rafiq (PT)
Physiotherapist
5 yrs exp
Srinagar
Hi please consult online for better treatment and diagnosis
Next Steps
Icing do
Health Tips
Upper trepezius stretch PAIN FREE ROM
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Dr. Avijit Das (PT)
Sports and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapist
4 yrs exp
Kolkata
Hi please take an online consultation for best diagnosis and treatment
Next Steps
Yes it is advisable.
Health Tips
Rest
Ice compression
Upper trapezius stretching exercise
Postural care and drinking water deep and long time sleep
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Disclaimer : The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.