Ask a PT

156 Posts
 
Posted - 06/07/2007 :  13:36:48  Show Profile  Reply with Quote
Our user asked: "I am a man of 38 years old and work in construction. I woke up with severe pain in my shoulder, neck and numbness in my arm and hand. I went to the Emergency Room of a local hospital and it was diagnosed as a trapezius strain. I was sent home with a muscle spasm medication and told to rest on a hard surface. My concern is the numbness in my arm and hand. Is this a symptom of a trapezius strain? thank you."

Ask a PT Response: "An upper trapezius strain by itself does not usually result in numbness of the upper extremity. Since it is a muscle that is located at the neck/shoulder region it usually becomes inflamed and irritated when it is strained and does not usually result in radicular symptoms. There is usually the addition of something else invloved that contributes to the pain and numbness. For example, poor posture or ergonomics at work or with sleeping can result in abnormal stress to the nerve(s)that innervate the arm, hands and fingers and as a result can make them irritated. Other causes of your symptoms can include and is not limited to a herniated cervical disc, thoracic outlet syndrome, elevated first rib and cervcial joint dysfunctions (ie. malalignment, hypomobility, etc.). A physical therapists will be able to conduct a more thorough evaluation along with provocative tests to determine what the exact cause of your symptoms are. Meanwhile, it is recommended that you avoid activities which increase your symptoms. Good neck support with sleeping is recommended as well. If things don't improve in a few days, definitely pursue further medical attention including consultation with a physical therapist. Pelase feel free to write back should you have additional questions. Thanks for using CyberPT."