Sloped/Thick Shoulders
What are Sloped/Thick Shoulders?
Sloped/thick shoulders and trapezius muscles refer to a shoulder and neck area that appears broader, more rounded, and prominent, often due to increased muscle mass in the trapezius and deltoid muscles. This look is common in people who engage in activities that involve heavy shoulder and upper back muscle engagement. Some people may find this appearance undesirable or may experience shoulder tension or pain associated with overdeveloped trapezius muscles.
Symptoms of Sloped Shoulders and Thick Trapezius Muscles:
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Bulky or overdeveloped shoulders with a sloped shape, as the trapezius muscle creates a sloping contour from the neck to the shoulders.
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Muscle tightness or tension in the shoulder and upper neck, often contributing to discomfort or pain.
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Restricted shoulder movement or stiffness, which can affect posture and flexibility.
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Frequent shoulder or neck pain, particularly after prolonged activities or sitting in a hunched position.
Causes of Sloped Shoulders and Thick Trapezius Muscles:
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Regular Upper Body Strength Training: Exercises such as shoulder presses, shrugs and rows can increase the size and bulk of the trapezius and deltoid muscles.​
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Repetitive Lifting or Carrying: Occupations or activities involving repetitive heavy lifting can lead to larger and thicker shoulder muscles.
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Poor Posture or Muscle Imbalance: Consistently poor posture can cause the trapezius muscles to become overworked and tense, leading to increased muscle bulk and shoulder pain.
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Genetic Predisposition: Some people naturally develop larger trapezius and shoulder muscles more easily due to genetics.
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Chronic Stress or Tension: Stress often causes people to tighten their shoulders, leading to tension in the trapezius, which may increase muscle mass over time and cause pain.
Sloped Shoulders and Thick Trapezius Muscles Treatment Options:
Option 1: Botulinum toxin injections can help reduce the bulkiness of the trapezius and shoulder muscles by relaxing them.​ Injecting botulinum toxin into the trapezius and deltoid muscles temporarily blocks the nerve signals to these muscles, reducing their contraction. This soften the shoulder's appearance and helps alleviate tension and pain.
Relaxed muscles tend to atrophy slightly, which can reduce the bulk in the trapezius and shoulder area, creating a slimmer look. Reducing the activity in the trapezius can relieve muscle-related shoulder pain and stiffness, improving range of motion and posture.
The results are typically shown in 2 weeks and can last 4-6 months.
Option 2: Fat-dissolving injections can help to contour the shoulder area if there is excess subcutaneous fat contributing to the bulk. Lemon Bottle or DesoBody injections contain compounds that break down fat cells. When injected into the shoulder area, they help dissolve small pockets of fat, which can reduce the overall bulk. By targeting fat deposits in the shoulder area, these injections can help achieve a more defined shoulder line without added bulk of excess fat.
The results are typically shown in 2-3 weeks and it is permanent.
Fat-dissolving injections can be combined with botulinum toxin for a more refined, slimmer shoulder and trapezius area. While botulinum toxin relaxes the muscle, fat-dissolving injections reduce the layer of fat, creating a more streamlined appearance.
Combining these treatments with lifestyle changes, such as posture correction exercises, can enhance results and maintain shoulder comfort and aesthetics.
