Back to A-Z


Myofascial pain syndrome (MPS)

Myofascial pain syndrome refers to pain in the body's soft tissues. MPS is a chronic condition that affects the fascia. It may involve either a single muscle or a muscle group. It usually involve muscle pain with specific trigger or tender points. The cause of myofascial pain syndrome is unknown. Nevertheless, prior injury, poor sleeps patterns, stressful life situations, and depression are common underlying conditions that may play a role in inciting and exacerbating myofascial pain syndrome.

Massage therapy using trigger-point release techniques, dry needling, neuraltherapy may be effective in short-term pain relief. Physical therapy involving gentle stretching and exercise is useful for recovering full range of motion and motor coordination. Once the trigger points are gone, muscle strengthening exercise can begin, supporting long-term health of the local muscle system.


Pubmed

UpToDate


Video


Web:

MayoClinic

WebMD

Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation - Medscape

More than just muscle pain - ChronicBodyPain

MedicineNet