Sternohyoid muscle neuralgia is a condition characterized by pain and discomfort related to the sternohyoid muscle. This muscle—located in the neck—can develop nerve-related pain (neuralgia) due to various causes. In this guide, we explain every aspect of this condition, including its anatomy, potential causes, symptoms, methods for diagnosis, treatment options (both non-drug and drug-based), surgical interventions, prevention strategies, and more.
Anatomy of the Sternohyoid Muscle
Understanding the anatomy of the sternohyoid muscle is key to grasping how neuralgia may develop.
Structure and Location
Location: The sternohyoid is one of the infrahyoid muscles located in the front of the neck. It runs vertically from the sternum to the hyoid bone.
Visible Under the Skin: When you look at the front of the neck, these muscles form a group that supports movements of the larynx and hyoid bone.
Origin and Insertion
Origin: The muscle originates at the manubrium (upper part of the sternum) and the medial end of the clavicle.
Insertion: It attaches to the lower border of the hyoid bone—a small U-shaped bone in the neck that supports the tongue.
Blood Supply and Nerve Supply
Blood Supply: The muscle receives blood from small branches of the superior thyroid artery and other nearby vessels.
Nerve Supply: It is innervated by the ansa cervicalis—a loop of nerves derived from the cervical spinal nerves (C1–C3). These nerves help control the function and movement of the muscle.
Key Functions of the Sternohyoid Muscle
Depressing the Hyoid Bone: It helps lower the hyoid bone during swallowing.
Assisting in Speech: Its action influences the tension in the laryngeal muscles, contributing to voice modulation.
Stabilizing the Larynx: Provides stability during movements such as speaking and swallowing.
Supporting Breathing: Contributes to the mechanics of the upper airway.
Coordinating with Other Neck Muscles: Works with other infrahyoid muscles to support neck movement.
Assisting in Swallowing: Helps move the larynx in the complex process of swallowing.
Neuralgia refers to pain that is caused by irritation or damage to a nerve. In the case of sternohyoid muscle neuralgia, the pain arises from nerve involvement related to or affecting the sternohyoid muscle. This can result in sharp, burning, or aching pain in the front of the neck, sometimes radiating to other areas.
Types of Sternohyoid Muscle Neuralgia
Although sternohyoid neuralgia is not as widely categorized as other nerve pain syndromes, it can be understood in several ways depending on its origin and duration:
Idiopathic Sternohyoid Neuralgia: Pain with no identifiable cause.
Post-Traumatic Sternohyoid Neuralgia: Develops after a neck injury or trauma.
Myofascial Sternohyoid Neuralgia: Associated with trigger points and muscle tension in the sternohyoid.
Secondary Sternohyoid Neuralgia: Occurs due to an underlying condition such as a cervical spine disorder, infection, or systemic illness.
Causes of Sternohyoid Muscle Neuralgia
Here are 20 potential causes that have been observed or hypothesized by clinicians:
Muscle Overuse: Repetitive strain from activities like long hours at a desk.
Poor Posture: Chronic slouching or improper head alignment.
Trauma: Sudden injury to the neck region.
Whiplash Injury: Sudden neck movements during accidents.
Cervical Spine Disorders: Conditions like cervical spondylosis.
Myofascial Pain Syndrome: Trigger points in the muscle.
Nerve Compression: Compression of the ansa cervicalis or adjacent nerves.
Inflammation: Local inflammation from an infection or injury.
Overstretching: Excessive stretching during exercise.
Repetitive Motion: Constant neck movements in certain jobs.
Stress: Chronic tension leading to muscle tightness.
Sleep Position: Poor sleep posture straining the neck.
Muscle Imbalance: Weakness or tightness in neighboring muscles.
Degenerative Changes: Age-related muscle or nerve changes.
Infections: Viral or bacterial infections affecting neck tissues.
Autoimmune Conditions: Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis affecting neck muscles.
Post-Surgical Complications: Scar tissue formation after neck surgery.
Iatrogenic Causes: Side effects of medical procedures in the neck area.
Nutritional Deficiencies: Lack of certain nutrients affecting nerve health.
Environmental Factors: Exposure to cold or wind that causes muscle stiffness.
Symptoms of Sternohyoid Muscle Neuralgia
People suffering from this condition may experience a variety of symptoms. Here are 20 common symptoms reported by patients:
Sharp Neck Pain: Sudden, intense pain in the front of the neck.
Burning Sensation: A feeling of heat or burning along the muscle.
Aching Discomfort: Constant dull pain that may worsen with movement.
Radiating Pain: Pain that spreads to the jaw, ear, or shoulder.
Muscle Spasms: Involuntary contractions in the neck muscles.
Tenderness: The affected area may be sensitive to touch.
Stiffness: Difficulty moving the neck due to tight muscles.
Headaches: Pain in the head that may be related to neck tension.
Difficulty Swallowing: Discomfort during swallowing because of muscle tension.
Voice Changes: Alteration in tone or volume due to laryngeal muscle involvement.
Fatigue: General tiredness caused by chronic pain.
Numbness: Occasional numbness or tingling sensations.
Increased Pain with Movement: Pain intensifies when turning the head.
Postural Discomfort: Poor posture exacerbates the pain.
Stress-Related Tension: Increased pain during periods of emotional stress.
Sleep Disturbances: Pain may interrupt sleep.
Difficulty with Neck Rotation: Limited range of motion.
Localized Swelling: Mild swelling around the muscle in some cases.
Muscle Weakness: A feeling of weakness in the neck muscles.
Intermittent Pain Episodes: Episodes of intense pain that come and go.
Diagnostic Tests for Sternohyoid Muscle Neuralgia
Diagnosing sternohyoid neuralgia involves a mix of clinical evaluation and imaging or laboratory tests. Here are 20 diagnostic tests or procedures that may be used:
Medical History Review: Detailed history of symptoms and onset.
Physical Examination: Palpation of the neck and assessment of movement.
Neurological Examination: Evaluating nerve function in the neck.
Ultrasound Imaging: Visualizing soft tissue structures.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): Detailed imaging of muscles and nerves.
Computed Tomography (CT) Scan: Assessing bony structures and soft tissues.
X-rays: Checking for cervical spine abnormalities.
Electromyography (EMG): Measuring electrical activity of the muscle.
Nerve Conduction Studies: Evaluating the speed of nerve signals.
Blood Tests: Checking for infection or inflammatory markers.
Cervical Range of Motion Testing: Assessing the movement of the neck.
Trigger Point Examination: Identifying specific spots of tenderness.
Postural Assessment: Evaluating alignment and posture.
Bone Scan: Detecting bone-related issues in the neck.
Dynamic Fluoroscopy: Real-time imaging of neck movement.
CT Myelography: Imaging nerve roots and spinal canal.
Thermography: Measuring temperature differences that may indicate inflammation.
Stress Tests: Observing pain response during specific movements.
Clinical Provocation Tests: Reproducing pain through specific maneuvers.
Ultrasound-Guided Diagnostic Injections: Confirming the pain source by injecting a local anesthetic into the muscle.
Non-Pharmacological Treatments
A number of non-drug approaches can help manage sternohyoid muscle neuralgia. Here are 30 methods often recommended:
Physical Therapy: Customized exercises to improve strength and flexibility.
Massage Therapy: Reducing muscle tension through manual manipulation.
Heat Therapy: Warm compresses to relax muscles.
Cold Therapy: Ice packs to reduce inflammation.
Stretching Exercises: Gentle stretches to ease muscle tightness.
Postural Training: Improving posture to lessen neck strain.
Ergonomic Adjustments: Modifying workstations to prevent overuse.
Acupuncture: Inserting thin needles at key points to relieve pain.
Trigger Point Therapy: Focused treatment on painful spots in the muscle.
Yoga: Exercises that enhance flexibility and reduce tension.
Pilates: Core-strengthening workouts that support neck stability.
Relaxation Techniques: Deep breathing or meditation to reduce stress.
Progressive Muscle Relaxation: Sequentially tensing and relaxing muscle groups.
Cervical Traction: Gentle stretching of the neck with specialized devices.
TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation): Electrical impulses to reduce pain.
Biofeedback: Learning to control body responses to stress.
Corrective Exercises: Targeting muscle imbalances in the neck.
Self-Massage Tools: Using foam rollers or massage balls.
Heat Wraps: Continuous low-level heat to ease discomfort.
Mindfulness Meditation: Reducing overall tension through mental focus.
Hydrotherapy: Warm water exercises to reduce muscle stiffness.
Chiropractic Adjustments: Manual spinal adjustments to improve alignment.
Manual Therapy: Hands-on techniques to improve joint and soft tissue function.
Behavioral Therapy: Managing pain-related stress and anxiety.
Posture Correction Devices: Braces or supports to maintain proper neck alignment.
Lifestyle Modifications: Reducing activities that exacerbate pain.
Ergonomic Pillows: Special neck pillows that support the cervical spine.
Stretch Bands: Resistance exercises to strengthen neck muscles.
Self-Care Routines: Daily routines that include gentle neck exercises.
Education and Self-Management: Learning about the condition to better manage symptoms.
Drugs Used in Management
When non-pharmacological treatments aren’t enough, doctors may prescribe medications. Here are 20 drugs commonly used for neuralgia and associated pain management:
Ibuprofen: A nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) to reduce inflammation.
Naproxen: Another NSAID for pain relief.
Acetaminophen: Pain reliever for mild to moderate pain.
Gabapentin: An anticonvulsant that also helps nerve pain.
Pregabalin: Similar to gabapentin, used for nerve pain.
Amitriptyline: A tricyclic antidepressant effective for chronic pain.
Duloxetine: A serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) used for neuropathic pain.
Carbamazepine: An anticonvulsant sometimes used in neuralgia.
Topiramate: Another anticonvulsant that can help reduce nerve pain.
Oxcarbazepine: An alternative to carbamazepine for nerve pain.
Muscle Relaxants (e.g., Cyclobenzaprine): To relieve muscle spasms.
Diclofenac: An NSAID that may help reduce inflammation.
Meloxicam: A once-daily NSAID used in chronic pain.
Celecoxib: A COX-2 inhibitor NSAID with fewer gastrointestinal side effects.
Lidocaine Patches: Topical anesthetic for localized pain relief.
Capsaicin Cream: A topical treatment that reduces pain sensation.
Tramadol: A weak opioid for moderate pain.
Codeine: An opioid sometimes combined with acetaminophen.
Baclofen: A muscle relaxant that may help with spasms.
Clonazepam: A benzodiazepine used occasionally for muscle-related pain and anxiety.
Surgical Options
Surgical treatment for sternohyoid neuralgia is usually considered only when conservative treatments have failed. Here are ten surgical approaches or procedures that may be considered:
Nerve Decompression Surgery: Relieving pressure on affected nerves.
Selective Denervation: Cutting specific nerve branches to alleviate pain.
Myotomy: Surgical cutting of a portion of the muscle to relieve tension.
Neurolysis: Freeing a nerve from scar tissue.
Spinal Decompression Surgery: If cervical spine issues contribute to the neuralgia.
Soft Tissue Release: Surgical release of tight soft tissues around the muscle.
Botulinum Toxin Injections (surgical assistance): In cases where injections are used to reduce muscle spasm.
Implantation of Neuromodulation Devices: Devices that alter nerve signaling.
Radiofrequency Ablation: Using heat to disrupt nerve conduction.
Endoscopic Surgical Procedures: Minimally invasive approaches to target the affected area.
Prevention Strategies
Preventing sternohyoid muscle neuralgia often involves lifestyle changes and proper body care. Consider these ten prevention strategies:
Maintain Good Posture: Keep the head and neck aligned.
Regular Stretching: Especially before and after exercise.
Strengthening Exercises: To support neck muscles.
Ergonomic Workspace Setup: Adjust chairs, monitors, and keyboards.
Proper Sleep Positions: Use supportive pillows.
Take Regular Breaks: Avoid long periods of static posture.
Stress Management: Reduce overall tension through relaxation techniques.
Avoid Heavy Lifting: Use proper techniques when lifting objects.
Stay Hydrated: Keep muscles healthy and reduce cramping.
Early Intervention: Address any neck pain or tension before it worsens.
When to See a Doctor
It is important to know when to consult a healthcare professional for sternohyoid muscle neuralgia. Consider seeing a doctor if you experience:
Persistent or Worsening Pain: Pain that does not improve with home care.
Pain that Limits Daily Activities: Interference with work, sleep, or social activities.
Radiating Pain: Pain spreading to other areas such as the jaw or shoulder.
Neurological Symptoms: Numbness, tingling, or muscle weakness.
Signs of Infection: Redness, warmth, or swelling around the neck.
Injury History: Recent trauma or whiplash with ongoing pain.
Difficulties Swallowing or Breathing: Indicating potential airway compromise.
No Relief with Over-the-Counter Medications: When simple treatments fail.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is sternohyoid muscle neuralgia?
A: It is nerve-related pain affecting the sternohyoid muscle, often presenting as sharp, burning, or aching pain in the front of the neck.
Q2: What causes sternohyoid neuralgia?
A: It can be caused by overuse, poor posture, trauma, muscle strain, nerve compression, inflammation, and other underlying conditions.
Q3: How does the sternohyoid muscle work?
A: This muscle depresses the hyoid bone during swallowing, helps stabilize the larynx, and plays a role in speech and breathing.
Q4: What symptoms should I look for?
A: Common symptoms include sharp or burning neck pain, muscle spasms, radiating pain, stiffness, and difficulty with neck movement.
Q5: How is the condition diagnosed?
A: Diagnosis is based on medical history, physical examination, imaging studies (MRI, CT, ultrasound), nerve conduction tests, and sometimes diagnostic injections.
Q6: Are there non-drug treatments available?
A: Yes, many patients benefit from physical therapy, massage, heat and cold therapy, stretching exercises, and other non-pharmacological methods.
Q7: What medications might be used?
A: Treatments may include NSAIDs, anticonvulsants (like gabapentin), muscle relaxants, and in some cases, opioids for severe pain.
Q8: When is surgery considered?
A: Surgery is usually a last resort if conservative measures fail and if there is clear evidence of nerve compression or structural issues.
Q9: How can I prevent sternohyoid neuralgia?
A: Good posture, regular stretching, ergonomic adjustments, and stress management can help prevent the condition.
Q10: Can physical activity worsen the pain?
A: Overexertion or improper technique can worsen symptoms; however, guided exercise is beneficial for long-term relief.
Q11: How long does recovery usually take?
A: Recovery varies by individual; some may see improvement within weeks while others require longer rehabilitation.
Q12: Is this condition common?
A: Sternohyoid muscle neuralgia is relatively uncommon compared to other types of neck pain, but it can be underdiagnosed.
Q13: Can stress cause this neuralgia?
A: Yes, stress can lead to muscle tension that may contribute to nerve irritation in the neck.
Q14: What lifestyle changes can help?
A: Maintaining a healthy posture, taking breaks during repetitive tasks, and engaging in regular neck exercises can be very helpful.
Q15: When should I seek emergency help?
A: If you experience sudden severe pain, breathing difficulties, or signs of an infection, seek medical care immediately.
Conclusion
Sternohyoid muscle neuralgia is a complex condition that can affect your quality of life. With a clear understanding of the muscle’s anatomy, causes of nerve irritation, symptoms, and a wide range of treatment options—from non-pharmacological therapies to medications and surgical interventions—you can work with your healthcare provider to create a personalized management plan. Prevention through proper posture, exercise, and lifestyle adjustments is key, and early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent complications. Always consult your doctor if symptoms persist or worsen.
Disclaimer: Each person’s journey is unique, treatment plan, life style, food habit, hormonal condition, immune system, chronic disease condition, geological location, weather and previous medical history is also unique. So always seek the best advice from a qualified medical professional or health care provider before trying any treatments to ensure to find out the best plan for you. This guide is for general information and educational purposes only. Regular check-ups and awareness can help to manage and prevent complications associated with these diseases conditions. If you or someone are suffering from this disease condition bookmark this website or share with someone who might find it useful! Boost your knowledge and stay ahead in your health journey. We always try to ensure that the content is regularly updated to reflect the latest medical research and treatment options. Thank you for giving your valuable time to read the article.
The article is written by Team Rxharun and reviewed by the Rx Editorial Board Members
Last Update: April 07, 2025.
