Myofascial pain syndrome is a chronic condition that happens as a result of the body’s soft tissues becoming inflamed. While nearly everyone experiences some sort of muscle tension pain at one time or another, those with myofascial pain syndrome (MPS) have episodes of pain on a recurring basis. MPS usually happens as a result of a muscle being contracted repetitively. Unlike muscle spasms and other types of muscle pain, MPS affects the connective tissue, called the fascia. Generally speaking, the area people report experiencing pain is not the site of injury. The body is full of various trigger points that cause pain in unrelated parts of the body. Because of this, myofascial pain can be quite frustrating and hard to diagnose.
Myofascial pain is often confused with fibromyalgia because many of the symptoms are similar. When you have pain and/or fatigue in your skeletal muscles, there is a good chance it is ether MPS or fibromyalgia. The main difference is that people with MPS experience localized pain in specific groups of muscles, usually in the low back, neck, or jaw. Here is a look at some of the most common symptoms associated with MPS:
In some cases, MPS can develop into fibromyalgia. If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, please contact Texas Partners Healthcare Group today and schedule an appointment with one of our specialists.
MPS is usually the result of a muscle injury or strain on a particular muscle group, ligament, or tendon. In some cases, it can occur because of repetitive motions or lack of activity and motion. Individuals who suffer from stress or anxiety are more susceptible to MPS and developing trigger points, which can result in pain. If you think you may have MPS, we will start by identifying trigger points by applying pressure in specific areas of your body. If we find an active trigger point that is tender, you may have MPS. Treatment of MPS includes physical therapy, trigger point injection therapy, and “stretch and spray,” a unique technique that works to slowly stretch the muscle.
We offer a wide range of treatments in our state-of-the-art clinics and are committed to your health and overall well-being. We understand how debilitating this type of pain can be and are here to help you find solutions that provide you with relief. To learn more about MPS or schedule an appointment, please contact one of our locations in Allen, Anna, Dallas, Frisco, or McKinney.