Myofascial Pain Syndrome

Myofascial Pain Syndrome is a chronic or recurrent pain condition involving the muscles and the surrounding fascia, often associated with painful myofascial trigger points. These areas may feel tight, tender or knotted and can produce pain locally or refer pain to another part of the body. It commonly affects the neck, shoulders, back, lower back, hips and limbs and may interfere with movement, sleep and daily activities.

Causes & Risk Factors

• Muscle overuse or repetitive movements
• Poor posture and prolonged sitting
• Repetitive occupational or sporting activities
• Muscle strain or injury
• Sudden increase in physical activity or exercise
• Prolonged muscle tension or stress
• Inadequate recovery after physical activity
• Sustained awkward positions
• Reduced flexibility or muscle conditioning
• Previous injury or surgery
• Sleep disturbances and fatigue
• Stress and psychological factors that contribute to persistent muscle tension

Symptoms

• Deep, aching or persistent muscle pain
• Localized tenderness or painful tight areas
• Palpable taut bands or trigger points within muscles
• Pain that may spread or refer to other areas
• Muscle stiffness or tightness
• Pain that worsens with movement or pressure on a trigger point
• Reduced range of movement
• Muscle fatigue or weakness
• Headache or facial pain when specific neck and shoulder muscles are involved
• Sleep disturbance due to persistent pain

Ultrasound Guided Trigger Point Identification

Targeted Trigger Point Injections & Day-Care Care

How Myofascial Pain Syndrome is Diagnosed?

Diagnosis is primarily based on a detailed history and physical examination.

The doctor assesses the location and pattern of pain, muscle tenderness, range of movement and the presence of characteristic painful areas or trigger points.

Imaging and laboratory tests are not usually required to diagnose myofascial pain but may be recommended when another underlying condition, such as a joint, spinal or neurological disorder, needs to be excluded.

Treatment Options for Myofascial Pain Syndrome

Treatment is individualized according to the severity, duration and contributing factors. The main goals are to reduce pain, restore normal muscle function, improve mobility and prevent recurrence.

Activity Modification: Temporarily reducing or modifying activities that aggravate pain while maintaining appropriate movement can help the muscles recover without prolonged inactivity.

Physiotherapy & Exercise: Stretching, strengthening, posture correction, mobility exercises and other physiotherapy techniques can reduce muscle tension, improve flexibility and restore function.

Heat Therapy: Heat can help relax tight muscles, improve local comfort and reduce stiffness.

At AREVA At AREVA, we evaluate the underlying cause and pattern of myofascial pain before developing a personalized treatment plan. Depending on the patient's condition, treatment may combine physiotherapy, exercise and rehabilitation, medication, trigger-point interventions and other targeted image-guided pain procedures to reduce pain and restore function.