Pain management
Myofascial pain syndrome
Myofascial Pain Syndrome is a chronic form of pain that affects muscle (Myo) and connective tissue surrounding muscle (Fascia). It involves some sensitive spots of the muscle called myofascial trigger points. These trigger points are painful when touched. Pain and spasms can spread throughout the surrounding muscle. The syndrome is often under-recognised. In many cases, it can be difficult to diagnose, as a significant number of patients also suffer from other different coexisting complications such as muscles weakness, sleep problem, fibromyelgia and different biomechanical abnormalities. Myofascial pain most often occurs in people 30 to 60 years old, especially who are less active and affects women more than men. Certain factors that may increase your risk of muscle trigger points include: muscle injury or overuse, inactivity, stress and anxiety. Treatment of the syndrome typically includes physiotherapy, soft tissue mobilisation, ischaemic compression, muscle energy techniques, stretching, trigger point injections, dry needling or medications. No conclusive evidence supports using one therapy over another. If you experience muscle pain that does not go away in typical self-care measures, such as rest or massage, exercises and stretching then you need to consult with a doctor or physiotherapist who can manage your condition confidently.
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