Treatment of myofascial pain syndrome

Area of Science:

• Pain Management
• Musculoskeletal Disorders
• Physical Medicine

Background:

• Myofascial pain syndrome (MPS) is characterized by myofascial trigger points (MTrPs) within skeletal muscle taut bands.
• The primary goal in MPS therapy is to treat the underlying cause of MTrP activation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To outline the essential therapeutic strategies for managing myofascial pain syndrome.
• To emphasize the importance of addressing the etiologic lesion before or concurrently with active trigger point treatment.

Main Methods:

• Review of current therapeutic approaches for myofascial pain syndrome and trigger points.
• Emphasis on conservative treatments preceding aggressive interventions.
• Inclusion of manual therapies, physical modalities, dry needling, and injections for MTrP treatment.

Main Results:

• Inactivation of MTrPs is often incomplete without addressing the underlying pathology.
• Persistent MTrPs may require direct treatment after the primary cause is managed.
• Eliminating perpetuating factors and patient education are crucial for long-term pain avoidance.

Conclusions:

• Successful myofascial pain syndrome management hinges on identifying and treating the underlying etiologic lesion.
• A stepwise approach, prioritizing conservative methods, is recommended for treating active trigger points.
• Comprehensive patient education and home care programs are vital for preventing chronic or recurrent pain.