Myofascial Pain Syndrome
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What is Myofascial Pain Syndrome?
Myofascial Pain Syndrome (MPS) is a chronic pain disorder that affects the muscles and the sheath of the tissue (called the fascia) that surrounds the muscles. It is characterized by the presence of trigger points, which are sensitive areas of tight muscle fibers that can cause pain in the affected muscle and sometimes in seemingly unrelated parts of the body.
Treatment for Myofascial Pain Syndrome
Anatomy of Trigger Points
Trigger points are hyperirritable spots in skeletal muscle that are associated with palpable nodules in taut bands of muscle fibers. When these trigger points are active, they can cause significant pain and discomfort. They may also cause referred pain, which is pain felt in another part of the body than the source.
Prevalence & Etiology
Myofascial Pain Syndrome is a common condition, affecting a significant portion of the population. It can develop in any muscle in the body but is most often found in muscles that are frequently used or stressed. Contributing factors include:
- Muscle injury or overuse
- Repetitive motions or poor posture
- Lack of activity (such as a broken arm in a sling)
- Stress and anxiety
- Nutritional deficiencies
- Poor sleep patterns
Symptoms
Symptoms of Myofascial Pain Syndrome include:
- Deep, aching pain in a muscle
- Persistent or worsening pain
- A tender knot in a muscle
- Difficulty sleeping due to pain
- Reduced range of motion in the affected muscle
- Referred pain in areas other than where the trigger point is located
Diagnosis
Diagnosing Myofascial Pain Syndrome typically involves a physical examination and a review of the patient’s medical history. The healthcare provider may palpate (feel) the muscles to identify trigger points and assess the patient’s pain response. Additional diagnostic tools may include:
- Electromyography (EMG) to measure muscle activity
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) to rule out other conditions
Treatment
Treatment for Myofascial Pain Syndrome focuses on relieving pain and improving muscle function. Common treatment modalities include:
Medications:
- Over-the-counter pain relievers
- Muscle relaxants
- Antidepressants for chronic pain relief
Physical Therapy
- Stretching and strengthening exercises
- Posture training
- Massage therapy
- Dry needling or acupuncture
at Alleviate Pain Clinic
- Purpose: Relieve pain and muscle tightness.
- Procedure: Injecting a local anesthetic, saline, or corticosteroid directly into trigger points.
- Benefits: Immediate pain relief, reduced muscle tension, improved range of motion.
- Purpose: Promote natural healing and reduce pain.
- Procedure: Injecting a solution (often dextrose) into painful areas to stimulate tissue repair.
- Benefits: Long-term pain relief, strengthened connective tissue, reduced inflammation.
Combined Approach
- Conservative Treatments: Physiotherapy to improve muscle function and reduce pain.
- When to Consider Invasive Treatments: Persistent pain and muscle tightness despite conservative management.
- Goals: Alleviate pain, improve mobility, enhance quality of life.
At Alleviate Pain Clinic, we offer a comprehensive treatment plan for myofascial pain syndrome, combining trigger point injections or prolotherapy with physiotherapy. Contact us to develop a personalized approach to manage your pain and improve your well-being.
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