Understanding Cysts in the Trapezius Muscle

Understanding Cysts in the Trapezius Muscle

The trapezius is a large, triangular muscle located in the upper back. This muscle extends from the base of the skull and spine out to the shoulder blades and collarbone. Cysts can sometimes develop inside the trapezius muscle. These fluid-filled lumps are usually benign but can cause discomfort depending on their size and location.

What is the Trapezius Muscle?

The trapezius is a broad, flat muscle that covers a large surface area of the upper back. It originates at the base of the skull, the cervical spine, and the thoracic spine. From there, it extends laterally to insert onto the scapula shoulder blades and the clavicle collarbone.

This muscle allows you to move your shoulder blades and lift your shoulders. It also tilts and rotates your head. The trapezius is activated when shrugging, reaching overhead, and turning your neck.

Cyst Characteristics

A cyst is a closed sac or capsule that develops abnormally underneath the skin. Cysts form when skin cells or other bodily tissues group together and form a mass.

The contents inside a cyst can be made up of:.

• Fluid
• Air
• Semi-solid material

Cysts are usually slow-growing and painless. They range in size from microscopic to several inches across. A cyst may feel like a small lump or bump under the skin.

Types of Cysts

There are a variety of different types of cysts that can develop in the body:

• Sebaceous cysts - filled with keratin protein and sebum from sebaceous glands.
• Pilar cysts - filled with protein from hair follicles.
• Epidermoid cysts - filled with skin cells, keratin and sebum.
• Ganglion cysts - filled with mucinous fluid, usually near joints and tendons.
• Baker's cysts - filled with synovial fluid from behind the knee.

Causes of Trapezius Cysts

There are several possible causes and risk factors for developing a cyst in the trapezius muscle:

Genetics

Some people may simply have a genetic predisposition for cyst formation. This can lead to frequent epidermoid or sebaceous cysts in areas like the trapezius.

Injury or Muscle Strain

Cysts sometimes form after an injury or muscle strain. The damaged tissues group together abnormally underneath the skin. Ganglion cysts near tendons often result from repetitive injuries.

Blocked Sebaceous or Sweat Glands

Obstructions in sebaceous glands or sweat ducts within the trapezius can cause sebum and dead skin cells to collect. This leads to sebaceous or epidermoid cyst formation.

Friction

Areas exposed to repetitive friction like the back of the neck are prone to epidermoid cysts. The constant irritation can cause skin cell overgrowth.

Weakened Immune System

Those with weakened immune systems have a higher likelihood of developing sebaceous and epidermoid cysts. The body has a harder time fighting against skin cell overgrowth.

Symptoms of Trapezius Cysts

Cysts in the trapezius muscle may produce the following symptoms:

• Visible lump or bump under the skin
• Round, dome-shaped protrusion
• Smooth, firm mass upon palpation
• Slow growing over time
• Diameter ranges from less than 1 cm to a few cm
• Can feel tethered to deeper tissues
• Mild aching or tenderness, especially when pressure applied
• Pain or stiffness in shoulder/neck

However, trapezius cysts do not always produce noticeable symptoms. Many are found incidentally through medical imaging tests for unrelated issues.

Appearance

Trapezius cysts look like smooth, round lumps under the skin surface. They are firm and rubbery upon palpation. The mass gradually grows larger over time. Surface skin remains normal colored without any redness or warmth.

Sensation

Small trapezius cysts may not cause pain or discomfort. Larger cysts can provoke mild achiness and tenderness, especially when pressure or friction applied. Sudden growth may cause muscle tightness or spasms.

Location

Cysts can crop up anywhere within the trapezius belly or along the edges. Common locations include the upper neck, base of the skull, top of the shoulders, and shoulder blades.

Diagnosing Trapezius Cysts

Doctors use the following techniques to positively diagnose trapezius cysts:

Physical Exam

Visually inspecting and palpating the lump allows doctors to note characteristics like location, size, shape, texture, and mobility. Cysts feel smooth, round, and firmly attached deeper inside the muscle tissue.

Imaging Tests

Imaging like ultrasounds, CT scans, or MRIs provide detailed views of cyst characteristics. This helps identify the type of fluid and tissues within the cyst capsule.

Fine Needle Aspiration

Inserting a small needle into the cyst can drain fluid for examination. This helps determine the contents and rule out concerning growths.

Biopsy

Rarely, a small sample of the cyst may be surgically extracted and sent to the lab for microscopic analysis. This confirms the cyst type and checks for any abnormal cells.

Trapezius Cyst Treatment Options

Treating trapezius cysts involves the following options:

Observation

Small, painless cysts may simply be monitored over time rather than removed. This avoids surgery and potential recurrence.

Aspiration Drainage

Inserting a needle into the cyst drains the fluid contents. This helps shrink the cyst temporarily, but it often eventually refills.

Steroid Injections

Injecting a corticosteroid medication into the cyst may help reduce inflammation and shrink the size. However, results are often temporary.

Surgical Removal

Excising the entire cyst via a small cut removes the mass and prevents recurrence. This is considered for painful or rapidly growing cysts.

Alternative Medicine Approaches

Options like acupuncture, massage, or turmeric supplements may help reduce inflammation and potentially shrink cysts.

Preventing Trapezius Cysts

You can reduce your risk of developing trapezius cysts by:

• Applying ice packs to injured trapezius muscles
• Taking frequent breaks when performing repetitive shoulder tasks
• Building trapezius muscle strength with shoulder exercises
• Maintaining proper posture to avoid neck strains
• Using good body mechanics for lifting
• Getting massage therapy to release muscle knots

When to See a Doctor

Consult your doctor if you notice any of the following:

• New lump or bump in the trapezius muscle
• Cyst larger than 2 cm diameter
• Signs of infection like redness, warmth, oozing
• Severe pain or rapidly growing cyst
• Muscle stiffness that limits neck/shoulder mobility
• Numbness or nerve tingling from a compressed nerve

Seeking prompt medical assessment helps determine appropriate treatment options for symptom relief.

The Bottom Line

Cysts in the trapezius muscle are a common occurrence. They form gradual fluid-filled capsules within the muscle belly or along the edges. Trapezius cysts often cause no symptoms but may feel like deep lumps in the upper back and neck. Conservative treatments are usually effective for cyst removal or control. See your doctor for any new back or neck lumps or pain.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.