Myofascial Pain Syndrome – Causes and Symptoms

Myofascial Pain Syndrome is a musculoskeletal pain disorder where an individual suffers chronic muscular pain and tenderness that worsens overtime. The word ‘Myo’ here refers to muscles and ‘fascial’ refers to the connective tissue called fascia which is wrapped around every muscle group in the human body.  

And hence it can affect any muscle group in human body and more importantly it can strike any individual at any time in their daily routine. Neck, Trapezius, Infraspinatus, Rhomboids, Levator scapulae are most common regions in human body that are commonly affected by Myofascial Pain Syndrome.

 “This is a localised condition where the pain is confined to particular area in the human body. While in few cases it fades, in the majority this pain can be intensify, become unbearable and doesn’t fade for a long time. We see both type of cases in UK”, says Spine surgeon & back pain specialist UK, Mr. Jwalant S. Mehta.  

Myofascial Pain Syndrome is common condition is painful and unfortunately, common condition where 85% of people in UK suffer from the pain at some point in their life time. So it is imperative for everyone to improve their awareness around this debilitating pain condition. And with the help of Children & Adult Spinal Surgeon in UK Mr Jwalant S Mehta we plan to improve your awareness about this condition today. Here we give you more information about its causes, help you identify its incidence and then provide you with treatment options. Read on:

What causes Myofascial Pain Syndrome?

Muscle injury, strain, weakness, emotional stress, physical activity in cold environment, lack of muscular activity, poor posture and pinched nerve are common causes of this condition. In addition to them metabolic and hormonal problems, chronic infections and vitamin deficiencies may also lead to Myofascial Pain Syndrome.

What are symptoms of Myofascial Pain Syndrome?

Symptoms of this condition can be different for different individual. In few cases it can suddenly show up at once and in others it may start as dull pain that stays in background for long time before flaring up. In general the symptoms of this condition include:

  1. Deep aching pain that is stiff & tight at the localized area.
  2. Tender, sore and wakened muscles.
  3. Reduced mobility, and range of motion in the affected muscles.
  4. Headache, poor sleep cycle, tiredness, stress, depression and anxiety are other common symptoms experienced by individuals suffering this condition.

Diagnosis & Treatment : 

MFS is identified by identifying the trigger points by applying pressure on specific point on the body. Active trigger points and latent trigger points are two type of trigger points in MFS which contribute to localised pin, and muscular weakness respectively.

Treatment for Myofascial Pain Syndrome involves anti-inflammatories (non-steroidal), opioids or acetaminophen. Physical therapy and Myofascial release therapy. Massage therapy, trigger point injection are also suggested to treat this pain condition. In few cases a combination of all these therapies are used for treatment. For more information on Myofascial Pain Syndrome and its treatment option, you can contact Children & Adult Spinal Surgeon in UK Mr Jwalant S Mehta