Consumer Health: Treating myofascial pain syndrome

Myofascial pain syndrome is a chronic pain disorder. In this condition, pressure on sensitive points in your muscles (trigger points) causes pain in the muscle and sometimes in seemingly unrelated parts of your body. This is called referred pain.

This syndrome typically occurs after a muscle has been contracted repetitively. This can be caused by repetitive motions used in jobs or hobbies, or by stress-related muscle tension. While nearly everyone can experience muscle tension pain, the discomfort associated with myofascial pain syndrome persists or worsens.

Treatment for myofascial pain syndrome typically includes medications, trigger point injections and physical therapy. No conclusive evidence supports using one therapy over another, but exercise is considered an important component of any treatment program.

Learn more about the treatment strategies for myofascial pain syndrome and which might be right for you.