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 Myofascial Pain Syndrome(MPS)

What is Myofascial pain syndrome? 

Myofascial pain syndrome (MPS) is a condition where the soft tissues of the body become painful and inflamed. MPS is a long-lasting problem that affects the fascia, which is the connective tissue that covers the muscles. It can involve one muscle or a group of muscles. Sometimes, the pain that a person feels is not in the same place as the source of the pain. Experts think that this happens because an injury or a strain in one place causes a trigger point to form, which then makes other places hurt. This is called referred pain.

  • Myofascial pain syndrome is a chronic local/ regional musculo-skeletal pain disorder that may involve either a single muscle or a muscle group.

  • No systemic features usually present. 

  • The pain may be of a burning, stabbing, aching or nagging quality.

  • Presence of trigger points/ tender points in muscle belly, pressing these points increases the pain.

  • The disease is more common in male & Curable. 

Myofacial Pain Syndrome Treatment

Why Myofascial Pain occurs?

Myofascial pain can arise due to various factors, including muscle injuries, overexertion of specific muscles, ligament or tendon strain. Additionally, it may result from:
•    Damage to muscle fibers
•    Repetitive movements
•    Insufficient physical activity (such as being immobile due to a broken arm in a sling)

What are the symptoms of Myofascial Pain Syndrome ?

The indications of myofascial pain typically manifest as muscle discomfort, particularly around specific "trigger" or "tender" points. This pain tends to intensify during periods of activity or heightened stress. Alongside the localized or regional pain linked to myofascial pain syndrome, individuals affected by this condition may also experience symptoms such as depression, fatigue, and behavioral disturbances.

How to diagnose Myofascial Pain Syndrome ?

The diagnosis of myofascial pain involves the identification of trigger points, where applying pressure to a specific area elicits pain. Two types of trigger points are recognized in the diagnosis of myofascial pain syndrome:
Active Trigger Point: This is an intensely tender area typically located within the skeletal muscle, accompanied by local or regional pain.
Latent Trigger Point: This is an inactive area with the potential to function as a trigger point. It may lead to muscle weakness or limited movement.

What are the treatments of Myofascial Pain?

Myofascial pain can be addressed through various treatment approaches. Medications, including non-steroidal anti-inflammatories like diclofenac, ibuprofen, or naproxen, as well as acetaminophen or mild opioids, may be prescribed. Additionally, medications targeting sleep, depression, or muscle spasms, such as Tizanidine or cyclobenzaprine, might be recommended. Non-pharmacological interventions may include:

Physical Therapy

Myofascial Release Therapy

"Stretch and Spray" Technique: This method involves applying a coolant to the muscle and trigger point, followed by gradual muscle stretching.

Massage Therapy

Trigger Point Injection

For chronic cases of myofascial pain, a combination of physical therapy, myofascial release therapy, trigger point injections, or massage may be necessary.

Managing Myofascial Pain: Trigger Point Injections

Trigger Point Injections as a Potential Treatment for Pain. Trigger Point Injections target specific muscle areas where knots, known as trigger points, develop due to muscle tension. These points, often palpable beneath the skin, can irritate surrounding nerves, leading to referred pain experienced in other parts of the body.
During a Trigger Point Injection (TPI), a physician delicately inserts a small needle into the patient's trigger point. The injection typically includes a local anesthetic or saline, and sometimes a corticosteroid. By administering the injection, the trigger point becomes inactive, providing relief from pain. Often, a short series of treatments can lead to sustained alleviation. These injections are conveniently administered in a doctor's office, usually requiring just a few minutes. Multiple sites may be addressed in a single session. In cases where a patient is allergic to specific medications, a dry-needle technique, which involves no medications, may be employed.
Trigger Point Injection is employed to address various muscle groups, with a focus on the arms, legs, lower back, and neck. Its therapeutic reach extends to conditions such as fibromyalgia and tension headaches. Additionally, TPI serves as a method to alleviate myofascial pain 

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