What Is Myofascial Pain Syndrome?
Myofascial pain syndrome is a chronic condition in which there is excessive pressure on your trigger points (sensitive areas in your muscles) that cause muscle pain. Sometimes the pain can spread to other areas of the body. This is known as referred pain.
Myofascial pain syndrome is caused by repeated muscle contractions, often related to repetitive motions at work or during sports or hobbies. It can also be brought on by stress and anxiety that cause you to tense and tighten your muscles. People with fibromyalgia may also be more likely to develop this condition.
While we all experience muscle pain and tightness now and then, myofascial pain syndrome is persistent and usually gets worse over time.
Symptoms
The symptoms of myofascial pain syndrome include:
- Intense muscle pain
- Pain that worsens or is ongoing
- Painful knots in the muscle – also known as trigger points
- Trouble sleeping because the pain is so intense
Treatment Options
Treatment options for myofascial pain syndrome include:
- Injection therapies – Injections can help manage various types of pain by blocking nerve signals. We offer nerve blocks including trigger point injections, peripheral nerve blocks, sympathetic nerve blocks, epidural injections, facet joint injections, sacroiliac joint injections, and botox amongst others.
- Medication management – Your doctor may recommend medications, such as over-the-counter pain relievers, topical ointments, non-steroidal anti-inflammatories, muscle relaxants, antidepressants, or anti-epileptics to treat your pain.
- Physical therapy – Exercises can help strengthen and support your muscles and joints.
Ready for an Appointment?
If you're experiencing signs or symptoms of myofascial pain syndrome, schedule an appointment or call 800-TEMPLE-MED (800-836-7536) today.
Learn more about our doctors and care team who diagnose and treat myofascial pain syndrome.