What is Traptox”? What you should know about the latest Botox trend on TikTok

What is Traptox”? What you should know about the latest Botox trend on TikTok

More and more people are taking part in “Traptox,” where they have Botox injected into their trapezius muscles. While the procedure can be used for pain relief, many resort to it for cosmetic purposes. Experts warn of possible negative consequences for people who use procedures to change their external appearance.

A procedure called “Traptox” is becoming increasingly popular online and in doctor’s offices.

The technique involves administering a neurotoxin such as Botox (BotulinumToxin) injected into the trapezius muscle. This muscle runs from the back of the head to just above the lower back and extends toward the shoulders.

The injections are given into the trapezius muscle for a variety of reasons, Dr. Joshua Zeichner, director of cosmetic and clinical research in the dermatology department at Mount Sinai HospitalHealth.

First, some have turned to the procedure for pain relief.

"Relaxing this large, superficial muscle in the back has long been used to relieve discomfort associated with tight muscles and may even help reduce the onset of headaches," he said.

Others try to change their appearance. According to Dr. According to Zeichner, “it can cosmetically slim the appearance of the shoulders and give the neck an elongated appearance.”

Experts say the origin of the trend is Kim Kardashian's allegedly edited photo, which makes her abdominal muscles appear smaller. Kardashian has since revealed that she has had Botox injections in that part of her body.

"This became popular because Kim Kardashian did it," said Aly Christoffersen, CPT, a Chicago-based exercise trainerHealth. "There are two main reasons [people are getting these injections], but the more popular option is to change size, look slimmer and have a longer neck."

Videos containing #traptox receive thousands of views on TikTok alone.

Dr. Zeichner said if a person's health insurance does not cover the procedure, the cost can range from $500 to $1,000, depending on how many units the patient needs and where they live.

Although “Traptox” is becoming more common, some experts say it could be harmful to people who undergo the procedure for body modification purposes.

"It can be very useful in clinical cases when someone has cramps in that area, but for cosmetic reasons it affects your long-term strength," said Alicia Jamison, CPT, a New York-based exercise trainerHealth.

Below, experts discuss the potential pros and cons of “Traptox” that you should know before you try it.

Getty Images/Tom Merton

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How “Traptox” injections work

This isn't the first time Botox has been used to treat a disease: the injections have received FDA approval to treat a variety of conditions, including chronic migraines; urinary incontinence; and hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating).

“Treatment involves multiple stitches with a needle through the skin and superficially into the muscle,” said Dr. Draftsman. It's not a particularly painful procedure, he added: "The discomfort is minimal, similar to acupuncture."

The results of the procedure last between three and five months, meaning you will need to receive additional injections at that point to maintain the benefits, Dr. Draftsman.

While most people can safely receive Botox injections, people with a history of neuromuscular diseases such as myasthenia gravis should avoid them, he said.

Two possible disadvantages should be considered before trying “Traptox”. One of them has to do with how your neck and shoulders might look after use. “The two sides could end up asymmetrical and require rework,” said Dr. Draftsman.

The other risk concerns your long-term strength. Because the Botox injections weaken your trapezius muscle, Jamison says it may be difficult to train this muscle in the future. “If you don’t use your muscles, you lose your muscles,” she said.

Jamison clarified that trying the procedure once isn't necessarily harmful, but regular injections are likely to have a lasting effect.

Christoffersen repeated this. “As they reduce the size of the muscle, they essentially also reduce the function of that muscle,” she said.

There is also research to support the claim that Botox injections cause long-term damage in some cases, she said. A review published in the magazinepharmacologyIn 2015, Botox injections were found to be linked to general muscle weakness, a bacterial infection called necrotizing fasciitis, anaphylactic shock, and more.

“Injecting something into the body is like taking any medicine,” Christoffersen said. “I always think about, ‘What’s my alternative?’ First.”

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How to get the benefits of “Traptox” without injections

There are many ways to relieve tension in the upper gluteus maximus area and correct rounded shoulders without Botox injections.

To target pain points, Christoffersen recommended using a massage gun. "They have mini versions that are easier to use on the trapezius muscles" because you're using the device on an area you can't easily reach, she said.

To release built-up tension and stretch your neck, focus on your posture, Jamison said. “In short, you want to strengthen your back and loosen your front.”

To loosen muscles that are usually tight after a long day in a desk chair, Jamison suggested treating the pectoral muscles with a foam roller.

She also recommended a specific stretch for this area: Stand in an open doorway and lift your elbow to a 90-degree angle so it's in line with your shoulder. Place your elbow against the door frame and lean the rest of your body through the frame so your elbow is extended back.

To strengthen your back muscles — which can improve your posture and stretch your neck — Jamison recommended an exercise called Prone W.

To try it, lie face down on your bed or floor and extend your arms at an angle so that they form a "Y" shape. Then lift your chest off the floor like you would in a Superman exercise and pull your elbows down toward your hips so that they form a "W" shape. Hold this pose for five seconds, then release and repeat.

If you are experiencing trapezius muscle pain and are currently working with a trainer or coach, tell them where the discomfort is occurring so they can target that area of ​​the body.

Although at-home exercises won't change your body overnight, they can help you make healthy changes over time, and they don't pose any risk. "A general rule of thumb with health and wellness trends," Jamison said, "is that if it gives immediate results, it's probably not good in the long run."