Myofascial Pain

Myofascial pain syndrome is a chronic and often worstening form of muscle pain centering around sensitive points called trigger points. Myofascial pain can be related to headaches, jaw pain, neck pain, low back pain, pelvic pain, and arm and leg pain.

Myofascial Pain Cause

Common cause of developing myofascial pain syndrome sensitive points (trigger points) are injuries or overuse. Stress and anxiety can create many problems in the body, including bone and muscle problems, and have been related to the myofascial pain syndrome.

Age is a contributor for Myofascial pain syndrome as it is more likely to occur in middle-aged adults as their muscles become less resilient. Women are more likely than men to experience myofascial pain syndrome. Complications may include muscle weakness, sleep problems from pain Myofascial pain syndrome may develop into fibromyalgia, which is a chronic condition causing widespread pain.

Myofascial Pain Symptoms

Myofascal syndrome symptoms are deep, aching pain in a muscle that that persists or worsens, muscle stiffness, joint stiffness and extreme sensitivity to touch.

Myofascial Pain Testing and Treatment

During the physical exam the doctor feels for trigger points and gauge reaction and sensitivity to touch. Myofascial pain syndrome treatment typically includes physical therapy for the trigger points. Physical therapy focuses on pain relief and exercises like stretching, massage and locating the cause of pain like stress, overuse, or posture. Yoga, pilates, or acupuncture therapy can help relieve symptoms and prevent complications. Other good things to try is to simply maintain a gentle exercise program, get plenty of rest, and maintain a healthy and well-balanced diet.

In case physical therapy or non-invasive therapies do not work, medications may be prescribed. Trigger point injections like anaesthetics or corticosteroid can relieve the tension in muscles.