Myofascial pain - More than just muscle pain

We all probably get sore, tight muscles now and again. However, if it persists, we may have a chronic problem on our hands. If you feel like your muscles are in a knot, difficult and painful to move, reoccurring, or the tightness gives you multiple headaches, you might want to ask your doctor about Myofascial Pain Syndrome.

"Myo" means muscle, and "Fascia" means connective tissue. So, Myofascial Pain Syndrome translates to muscle and connective tissue pain syndrome. Although, many practitioners consider it a disease unto itself, and not merely a chronic pain syndrome. So myofascial pain is more than just a sore muscle - it's an issue in tendons and ligaments. The fascial system is large and complex, with three layers that run from the top of the head to the bottoms of the feet. When healthy, the fascial system is relaxed and pliable. When rigid, the layers create pulls, tensions, and pressure.

Myofascial Pain Syndrome further involves what they call Trigger Points; irritable contractions in the connective tissue and muscles. They can be found in many areas; muscles, tendons, skin, scar tissue, and ligaments. They can be caused by many things including other trigger points, trauma to the soft tissue, disease, infection, psychological distress, repetitive motion, general fatigue, etc. The restricted trigger points also inhibit blood flow, which can make the pain worse unless treated. In some cases, the trigger points are in a different place from where the patient is experiencing the pain.

There are a few options when it comes to treatment of Myofascial Pain Syndrome. Myofascial therapy is offered by many types of health professionals. Osteopaths, chiropractors, physical or occupational therapists, and massage therapists are some professionals that may have the training to treat Myofascial Pain Syndrome. Myofasical therapy works by stretching and loosening the fascia so it and your body can move freely, removing pain and restriction.

Myofascial therapy starts by an appointment to locate the areas of fascia and trigger points that seem to be restricted. There will be multiple treatment sessions for a few weeks or months depending on the seriousness of the issue. It can and may include physical therapy, massage therapy, trigger point injection and/or stretch and spray technique. Stretch and spray technique is when the muscle and trigger point are sprayed with a coolant, then the muscle is slowly stretched. Progress will be monitored by the decrease in pain and increase in flexibility you experience.

A sufferer of Myofascial Pain Syndrome might also benefit from self-stretching and/or aerobic exercises at home to increase blood flow and maintain flexibility. Pain relievers such as acetaminophen and anti-inflammatories can help with pain during the rough patches, and applying heat to the sore areas assist as well. Stretching is also beneficial after Myofascial therapy to promote healing and prevent reoccurrence of trigger point restriction.

Like with any medical condition, there is hope, and your medical professionals will have answers for you. Hopefully, this has helped shed some light on what might be chronic pain, and what to ask your doctor.

About Author:

Steve Akamine is a registered massage therapist in Honolulu, Hawaii and the owner of Honolulu-Chronic-Pain-Management.com. He is a specialist in neuromuscular therapy and is registered by the American Massage Therapy Association. He specializes in helping people with acute and chronic pain problems. Learn how clinical massage can help with chronic pain.