A chronic (long-term) disorder that negatively affects the muscles and the fascia around them is called myofascial pain syndrome. In people with this syndrome, pressing on trigger points (knots) may cause localized pain. Sometimes, this condition is mistaken for fibromyalgia, but there are different health conditions.
Fascia is a connective tissue that covers the muscles, including muscle fibers, single muscles, and muscle groups. While most of the time, this condition affects only one area, some people may notice symptoms in different parts of the body.
Generally, myofascial pain syndrome is common, affecting approximately 85% of people worldwide at some point in their lives.
Symptoms
Usually, people with this syndrome experience different symptoms, and some people experience them suddenly and all at once. Check some examples below:
- Muscle weakness
- Decreased range of motion (such as inability to completely rotate the shoulder)
- Throbbing or aching pain
- Tender and sore muscles
- Stiffness
- Trigger points (including small bumps, nodules, or knots in the muscles)
In rare cases, people with myofascial pain syndrome may experience other symptoms and health conditions. Examples include:
If any of the previous symptoms occur without an obvious reason, immediately contact your healthcare professional.
Types of Trigger Points
There are four types of trigger points, including:
- Active trigger point – In most cases, it lies within a muscle. When pressure is applied to this point, pain appears at the site of the trigger point or along the same muscle.
- Latent trigger point – This type is inactive, but can become active over time.
- Secondary trigger point – Usually, this type is a knot in the muscle that is not the same as an active trigger point. Sometimes, active and secondary trigger points can be triggered at the same time.
- Satellite trigger point – In such cases, a trigger point becomes inactive because it overlaps the region of another trigger point.
Causes and Risk Factors
Healthcare providers continue to study why some people are more likely to develop myofascial pain syndrome, and others are not. Check for the most common causes of this syndrome below:
- Repetitive motions (including hammering)
- Poor stature
- Muscle injuries
While anyone can develop myofascial pain syndrome, physicians have identified some factors that could increase the risk. Examples include:
- Muscle weakness
- Pinched nerves
- Metabolic or hormonal problems (such as thyroid disease, diabetes-related neuropathy, and others)
- Vitamin deficiencies (including folate and vitamin D)
- Chronic (long-term) infections
- Lack of physical activity
- Prolonged stay in a cold environment
- Emotional stress
What Are The Potential Complications of Myofascial Pain Syndrome?
People with this syndrome may also experience some complications, especially if they leave it untreated. Check some of them below:
- Reduced mobility (often caused by chronic pain and muscle stiffness)
- Secondary postural problems – These include postural imbalances, joint dysfunction, referred pain to other areas of the body, and others
- Tension headaches
- Sleep disturbances (insomnia)
- Severe fatigue
- Mood disorders (including anxiety, depression, and high levels of stress)
- Decreased quality of life
- Fibromyalgia – This is a serious condition that may occur in people with myofascial pain syndrome. It can cause widespread and chronic body pain.
The previous list does not contain a full list of myofascial pain syndrome complications. In any case, your doctor may recommend some options that may reduce the risk or even prevent them.
Is There a Way to Prevent Myofascial Pain Syndrome?
Unfortunately, it is not always possible to prevent this disorder, but doctors may recommend some tips to reduce the risk. Check some examples below:
- Get enough sleep
- Manage stress
- Physical exercise – Doctors often recommend performing physical exercise for about 30 minutes per day, at least 5 days per week.
- Avoid preventable muscle injuries
- Relaxation options
- Dietary changes (such as the Mediterranean diet)
- Drink plenty of water
Additionally, there are some foods that may cause inflammation, which significantly increases the risk of myofascial pain syndrome. Inflammation could also worsen the condition if you are already diagnosed with it. Check some foods below:
- Fried foods
- Dairy (including milk, cheese, and yogurt)
- Refined carbohydrates and foods with refined flour (such as white bread, pastries, pastas, breakfast cereals, pizza, and others)
- Margarine, butter, and vegetable oil
- Red meat (including steaks and burgers)
- Sugary foods and drinks
- Artificial sweeteners and additives
- Processed meat (such as sausages and hot dogs)
Diagnosis
Mostly, this condition is difficult to diagnose because it shares multiple symptoms with those of other health conditions. That’s why this syndrome is usually underdiagnosed and overlooked. To diagnose this disorder, physicians often perform physical and neurological examination and some tests to rule out other conditions that cause similar symptoms.
Treatment
In general, there are some treatment options that doctors often recommend for people with myofascial pain syndrome. These include in-office treatments, medicines, and home remedies.
In-office Treatments
These include:
- Physical therapy – It is used to strengthen the muscles.
- Dry needling – It is used to increase blood flow and ease pain.
- Trigger point injections
- Light therapy – This therapy helps stimulate the release of pain-relieving chemicals.
- Ultrasound therapy to penetrate the muscles)
- TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation) – This option delivers low-voltage electrical signals to the trigger points.
- Acupuncture and relaxation therapies
- CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy)
Medicines
- Pain relievers
- Steroids
- Sedatives
- Antidepressants
- Muscle relaxants
- NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs)
Home Remedies
- Ice and heat packs to reduce inflammation
- Myofascial pain syndrome exercises (including stretching exercises, aerobic exercises, and weight-bearing exercises)
- Nonprescription pain relievers (such as Acetaminophen)
- Relaxation techniques (such as yoga, breathing exercises, and meditation)
- Avoid foods that cause inflammation
- Massage
Commonly, treatment for myofascial pain syndrome requires a healthcare team, which includes rheumatologists, physical therapists, orthopedists, pain management specialists, and physiatrists.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does myofascial pain syndrome last?
In general, the duration of this disorder varies among people, depending on several factors. These include the severity of the condition, age, gender, and your response to treatment.
What is the difference between myofascial pain syndrome and fibromyalgia?
While both disorders cause similar pain and have trigger points, they are different conditions. Myofascial pain syndrome often causes pain in one specific area, but fibromyalgia can cause pain throughout the body at the same time. Furthermore, those who develop fibromyalgia are at increased risk for more severe fatigue, headaches, sleep disorders, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
What vitamin deficiency is linked to fibromyalgia?
Approximately 40% of people who develop fibromyalgia have reduced levels of vitamin D in the blood. However, muscle pain and fatigue can also be caused by a deficiency of vitamin B12 and essential minerals.
Can myofascial pain syndrome go away on its own?
In some mild cases, symptoms may improve with rest, stretching, stress reduction, and avoiding activities that strain the muscles. However, chronic myofascial pain syndrome often requires medical treatment, physical therapy, or other interventions to effectively manage symptoms and prevent recurrence.
Where does myofascial pain syndrome most commonly occur?
Myofascial pain syndrome can affect any muscle group, but it most commonly develops in the neck, shoulders, upper back, lower back, and jaw muscles. People who perform repetitive movements or maintain poor posture for long periods are more likely to develop trigger points in these areas.
Can stress make myofascial pain syndrome worse?
Emotional stress can increase muscle tension, which may trigger new pain points or worsen existing symptoms. Many healthcare providers recommend stress-management techniques such as meditation, yoga, deep breathing exercises, and counseling as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
Is exercise safe for people with myofascial pain syndrome?
Yes, in most cases. Low-impact activities such as walking, swimming, stretching, and cycling can help improve flexibility, reduce stiffness, and strengthen muscles. However, excessive or high-intensity exercise may aggravate symptoms, so it is important to follow a healthcare provider’s recommendations.
Can poor posture cause myofascial pain syndrome?
Poor posture is considered a common risk factor. Sitting or standing incorrectly for long periods places extra stress on certain muscles, leading to muscle strain and the development of trigger points. Improving posture and maintaining an ergonomic workspace may help reduce symptoms.
Is myofascial pain syndrome a permanent condition?
Not necessarily. Many people experience significant improvement with proper treatment and lifestyle changes. In any case, symptoms may return if trigger factors such as muscle overuse, stress, poor posture, or lack of physical activity are not addressed.
When should I see a doctor for myofascial pain syndrome?
You should consult a healthcare professional if muscle pain persists for several weeks, interferes with daily activities, affects sleep quality, limits movement, or does not improve with self-care measures. Early diagnosis and treatment may help prevent complications and improve quality of life. If you have additional questions, ask your healthcare provider.
