Myofascial pain syndrome (MPS) is a type of long-lasting muscle pain caused by trigger points. Trigger points in the muscle are small and hyperirritable contraction knots that results in pain when touched. These trigger points are linked to fascia – a band or sheet of fibrous tissue that wraps and separates the organs, muscles, and other such structures in one’s body. As a result, pain felt in a trigger point may travel to other areas of the body or cause referred pain – pain felt in another area.
Some symptoms of MPS are: persistent, deep pain or strain in one’s muscle, muscle or joint stiffness, tension in the muscles and sensitivity to touch, knots or nodules, and sleeping problems due to intense pain. MPS has affected many areas, causing pain in (but not limited to) the neck, jaw, head, back pelvis, legs, and arms.
Unfortunately, MPS is hard to cure and tends to get worse over time. Muscle injury, repetitive stress, overuse, or anxiety and stress can all be factors which cause it to occur. In order for doctors to properly diagnose this condition, a patient’s medical history must be carefully reviewed, and palpation (feeling for muscle knots) must be used. Once the affected areas have been determined, pressure must be applied to the tight areas to loosen the muscle contraction and provide relief.
Despite MPS not being life-threatening, it can lead to further complications in the long-term. One’s muscles can severely weaken over time if one lives a sedentary lifestyle, or if they let their muscles atrophy due to fear of causing an injury. Furthermore, chronic muscle pain may cause individuals to develop insomnia. They may also loose mental clarity and focus, experience general irritability, depression symptoms, and dizziness. Memory loss may also occur, as well as an increased risk for conditions such as hypertension, heart disease, and high blood pressure.
Conservative remedies for MPS include a comprehensive stretching routine, as well as coping methods to compensate for daily routines that may lead to pain. For instance, bad posture may result in muscle strain in one’s low back. Repetitive movements, especially when performed with poor body mechanics can lead to various muscle tightness and pains. By studying proper body mechanics and safer ways to complete daily activities, muscle stress and strain can be reduced, and chronic muscle pain may ultimately be dealt with.
Deep tissue massage can be a very effective method to treat MPS. By targeting trigger point areas with direct pressure on or around the knotted location, and carrying out gentle traction-type movement on the tight fascia, trigger points can be broken up and pain will be reduced. This process is otherwise known as myofascial release.
Lastly, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) as well as antidepressants can also be beneficial. In extreme situations, where tightness and pain is unresponsive and chronic, a trigger point injection may need to be considered. This is when strong medications like steroids or a local anesthetic are injected at an affected trigger point to alleviate tightness.
Photo Credit: NikksGoerge