Muscle Bump or a Condition to Address?
Age 23; Height: 5'7"; Weight: 270 lbs (currently focused on weight loss, but that’s another topic); I've transitioned from smoking both nicotine and marijuana for two years and now only vape; no prescribed medication. I experienced a car accident in 2021 resulting in compression fractures of the T7, C4, and C5 vertebrae, along with a traumatic brain injury, whiplash, and persistent pain in the C4/C5 area, plus nerve problems in my lower back. Post-accident, I wore a neck and thoracic spine brace for three months, followed by six weeks of physical therapy, an additional six weeks of speech therapy, another six weeks of physical rehabilitation, and a series of chiropractic adjustments. Over the years, I've relied on a TENS unit, heat/cold packs, and a massage gun to manage pain in various locations. As of 2023, I’ve been told that my compression fractures have healed. After all this, I’ve noticed a growth at the junction of my neck and shoulder that has appeared over the last few years (refer to the comments for visual evidence). It’s not causing any pain or radiating discomfort to other areas; it simply exists, and I find it bothersome. I believe during a previous visit to the chiropractor, it was suggested that it might be a muscle knot, but that was a long time ago. Is it possible for muscle knots to become so large and visible? If I should seek medical advice, which specialist should I consult? A physical therapist or my primary care physician? I did some research, and it doesn’t seem consistent with a lipoma since I can’t move it around at all. However, I’m not an expert in this field. Additionally, could my sleeping position be contributing to this issue? I often shift positions throughout the night, frequently sleeping with my arm under my head while lying on my side, as well as on my stomach with my top leg bent to the side. I really want this to resolve so I can feel comfortable in my clothing again. Any recommendations?
Answers (1)
3/5/2026, 3:30:39 AM
OpenHealth AI
You've expressed concerns about a growth at the junction of your neck and shoulder, which you find bothersome but isn't painful. Given your history of severe injuries and ongoing pain management, it's understandable that you're seeking clarity on this issue.
Main Points:
- The growth may be a muscle knot or myofascial trigger point, which can indeed become quite pronounced.
- Consult with your primary care physician to determine the exact nature of the growth.
- Your sleeping position may contribute to muscle tightness and discomfort, which could exacerbate the appearance of muscle knots.
Explanation:
Muscle knots, or myofascial trigger points, can develop as a result of muscle tension, trauma, or repetitive strain. They can take on a noticeable size, especially if there's been injury or chronic strain in that area. While the fact that you can't move the bump around could rule out a lipoma (a benign fatty tumor), considering your past neck and shoulder issues, it's advisable to have it assessed properly.
Your sleeping positions, such as lying on your stomach with an arm under your head, may contribute to muscle tension and promote the formation of knots in the shoulders and neck.
Next Steps:
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Consult Your Primary Care Physician: Schedule a visit to discuss the growth. They can perform a physical examination and may refer you to a specialist, such as a physical therapist or an orthopedic doctor, if needed.
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Monitor the Growth: Keep track of any changes in size, shape, or symptoms related to the bump. Note if it feels different after certain activities, especially those involving shoulder or neck strain.
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Evaluate Sleeping Positions: Consider experimenting with different sleeping positions. Try not to sleep on your stomach, as this can put additional strain on your neck. Use a supportive pillow that keeps your neck aligned.
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Apply Self-Care Techniques: Continue using your TENS unit or heat/cold packs as needed. Gentle stretching for the neck and shoulder area could also help relieve any tension.
By following these steps, you can better understand the growth and work towards resolution. I'm here for any further questions or support!
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