What Is Myofascial Pain Syndrome

As a chronic pain condition, myofascial pain syndrome occurs when an increased amount of pressure is put on sensitive areas of muscles (also known as trigger points), leading to pain. Most commonly, myofascial pain syndrome develops when a muscle has been repetitively contracted due to continuous physical movement or because of tension in the muscle. Though muscle pain can be relatively common, the symptoms of myofascial pain syndrome are chronic and can worsen over time. At Tricity Pain Associates, our team of skilled pain management specialists offers a variety of options to treat myofascial pain syndrome. Contact one of our Texas pain management locations to learn more and to schedule an initial consultation.

About Of Myofascial Pain Syndrome

This typically refers to localized and sometimes diffuse pain in the body due to skeletal muscle injury or strain. Muscle strains and injuries can lead to muscle spasm that restricts localized blood flow and thus oxygen delivery to the injured area. This can lead to release of inflammatory chemicals in the tissues which can sustain any localized muscle spasm. These spasmed areas or “trigger points” can actually be felt under the skin as well circumscribed painful areas. These trigger points can also refer pain outside of their localized areas. Typical treatment involves anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy and active stretching of the painful areas. Sometimes localized injections into the painful areas are required. Often times, myofascial pain is secondary to some other primary problem restricting a person’s motion.

myofascial-pain-img

Symptoms Of Myofascial Pain Syndrome

Symptoms and indications of myofascial pain syndrome can include:

  • Consistent throbbing or aching pain in a muscle
  • Chronic pain that may worsen over time
  • A sensitive knot in a muscle
  • Having trouble sleeping because of pain and discomfort

In order to properly diagnose myofascial pain syndrome, a physical exam may be conducted to identify the exact area that the pain is coming from. Additional tests may also be conducted in order to rule out any other causes of muscle pain.

Causes Of Myofascial Pain Syndrome

The main cause of myofascial pain is overuse or an injury to the muscle. This then leads to sensitive areas, also known as trigger points, causing discomfort and pain in the muscle. Another factor that can contribute to the development of myofascial pain syndrome is stress and anxiety due to the clenching and tension of muscles. Since muscle pain can occur due to many reasons, it is important to receive a proper physical exam to determine the exact cause.

Treatments For Myofascial Pain Syndrome

Treatment for myofascial pain syndrome can consist of a variety of methods. In most cases, medication or physical therapy may be suggested as the first form of treatment. For more severe cases, corticosteroid injections could be useful to alleviate pain and allow you to live more comfortably. Some patients also see results from a dry needling technique, which involves inserting a needle into the muscle to release muscle tension. Additionally, lifestyle changes can be important to relieve myofascial pain, including exercise, reducing stress, and getting enough sleep. Our team of pain management specialists will help you understand all of your treatment options before creating a procedure plan that is personalized to your specific needs.

Release Muscle Tension

With the use of advanced treatment methods, you no longer have to live with the discomfort of myofascial pain syndrome. At Tricity Pain Associates, our team of pain management experts can offer the best form of treatment for you. Learn more by contacting one of our Texas pain management facilities to schedule a consultation.