Myofascial Pain Syndrome Treatment in Petaluma, CA

What is Myofascial Pain Syndrome?

Myofascial pain syndrome (MPS) is a chronic condition that causes muscle pain in the musculoskeletal system. MPS presents pain and inflammation in the body’s soft tissues.

What Causes Myofascial Pain Syndrome?

Myofascial pain may develop from an injured or strained muscle, ligament, or tendon. This pain typically occurs after a muscle has been contracted repetitively.

Other causes may include:

  • Repetitive motions used in jobs or hobbies
  • Stress-related muscle tension or overuse
  • Poor posture
  • Lack of activity if the muscle has been in a cast or a sling

This pain is confined to a particular area and is associated with trigger points in the muscles. This means that the trigger points can radiate pain to other areas of the body.

What are the Symptoms of Myofascial Pain Syndrome?

There are two main types of MPS, acute and chronic.

Acute MPS frequently resolves spontaneously or after simple treatments, while chronic MPS symptoms are usually worse and can last for six months or longer. It is most commonly seen in people ages 27 to 50.

Symptoms that may mean you have MPS include: 

Muscle Pain

  • Aching
  • Throbbing
  • Tight
  • Stiff
  • Confined to a particular area

Trigger Points

  • Small bumps, nodules or knots in your muscle
  • Causes pain when touched
  • Radiate pain to the affected area
  • Can also cause pain spontaneously with no pressure

If you experience any muscle pain, talk with your doctor for a consultation. Often this pain can get in the way of everyday activities and impair your quality of life.

How Do I Know if I Have Myofascial Pain Syndrome?

Your doctor will do a physical exam to see what happens when gentle pressure is applied. You may need imaging or other diagnostic tests to rule out other conditions that may be causing pain.

Be sure to talk to your doctor about when, how, and how frequent you experience the pain. As you discuss your symptoms and lifestyle factors, it will give a more complete picture to diagnose myofascial pain syndrome.

Treatment for Myofascial Pain Syndrome

If you have MPS, there are a number of treatment options. Often, it will depend on the severity of your pain as well as the location.

Treatment for Myofascial Pain Syndrome

  • Heat
  • Physical modalities
  • Stretching
  • Exercise
  • Trigger point dry (TRP) needling
  • Local anesthetic injection
  • Nerve stimulation
  • Massage
  • Low-level light therapy

Benefits of Myofascial Pain Syndrome Treatment

  • Improved range of motion
  • Decreased muscle tone
  • Decreased pain

There are several options to help you get relief for your pain. As you discuss your treatment plan with your doctor, you will find the right path for you.

When to Get Help for Myofascial Pain Syndrome

Untreated, the myofascial pain syndrome can lead to:

  • A reduced ability to extend or stretch the muscle 
  • Consecutive decrease of the range of motion 
  • Imbalanced muscles 
  • Coordination issues
  • Evolution of a chronic pain disease