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Traptox: The Latest Trend Sweeping TikTok

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With #traptox already garnering over 2.3 million views on TikTok it seems there is a new ‘it’ tweakment on the rise.

‘Traptox’ refers to having muscle relaxing injections such as Botulinum Toxin injected into the trapezius muscles. This procedure can be done to help alleviate muscle tightness and pain and to create the appearance of a slimmer neck and shoulders with some people choosing to have this done for big photo occasions such as their wedding days.

The trapezius muscle recently became a focal point in the social media space after Kim Kardashian came under fire for allegedly photoshopping her shoulder in an Instagram post. As with anything a Kardashian Instagram touches, it turns to tweakment gold and can inspire people to opt to try it for themselves.

We spoke to Dr Noreen Hashmi, Cosmetic Doctor at sk:n clinics, to find out more about this new tweakment…

What is muscle relaxing injections?

“Botulinum toxin A is a neurotoxic protein derived from the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. It is primarily well-known for its cosmetic applications. However, muscle relaxing injections have a range of clinical applications beyond its aesthetic appeal, including the treatment of chronic pain, and more recently it is being used in the slimming of trapezius shoulder and neck muscles.”

What is the trapezius muscle?

“The trapezius muscle is a large, superficial muscle that stretches from the back of the skull along the spine to the lower thoracic vertebrae and extends laterally to the shoulder blade. It is responsible for many shoulder and neck movements, including lifting and stabilizing the shoulders, as well as maintaining a proper posture.”

How can muscle relaxing injections be used in the trapezius muscle?

“The use of muscle relaxing injections in the trapezius muscle aims to alleviate chronic pain, particularly in conditions like chronic neck pain, tension headaches, and myofascial pain syndrome. Muscle relaxing injections block the release of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter responsible for muscle contractions, at the neuromuscular junction. By doing so, it temporarily paralyzes the trapezius muscle, subsequently reducing muscle tension and stiffness.”

How are the injections administered into the trapezius muscle?

“The injections are typically administered directly into the trapezius muscle at predetermined trigger points that have been identified as causing pain. Several small injections are needed. Pain relief can generally be observed within a week post-injection and can last for approximately 3-6 months. By addressing the trapezius muscle's contribution to these conditions, Botox can offer long-lasting relief with minimal side effects, often improving patients' quality of life.”

Are there any other uses for muscle relaxing injections in the trapezius muscle?

“Injections can also be used for the slimming or contouring of the trapezius muscle, resulting in a more aesthetically desired neck and shoulder profile. This procedure is particularly popular among individuals seeking a reduced trapezius muscle “bulk” for a more refined appearance. When injected into specific points within the trapezius muscle, muscle relaxing injections cause temporary muscle atrophy (volume reduction) by inhibiting nerve cell communication. As the treated muscle undergoes reduced activity, it shrinks over time, leading to a slimmer profile. The effects of this treatment typically last for an average of 4-6 months, after which repetition becomes necessary to maintain results. Achieving optimal results requires precise administration by a qualified medical professional such as myself or other practitioners at sk:n clinics.”

About sk:n…

sk:n is the UK’s largest network of specialist skin care clinics, and is passionate about providing the highest quality of treatment and care to patients to help them rediscover their skin confidence. Their 60+ clinics across the country are regulated by the CQC, the Health Inspectorate Wales, and Health Improvement Scotland. Their clinics are home to over 450 consultant doctors, nurses, and medical practitioners all of whom are registered with the GMC, NMC or GDC. Further to this they have partnered with the Junior Council for Cosmetic Practitioners (JCCP) since 2016 and together they strive for better patient safety and the development of strict, accredited regulations for the aesthetics industry.

Find out more at sknclinics.co.uk.