Myofascial Pain Syndrome

Excerpt

Myofascial pain syndrome is a condition characterized by regional pain within the muscle, fascia, or surrounding soft tissue. Although the disorder lacks a unified diagnostic criterion, patients typically present with localized pain in a restricted area or referred pain of various patterns. Physical examination reveals hyperirritable areas within taut bands of skeletal muscle, known as trigger points. Risk factors include trauma, poor posture, structural abnormalities, and systemic conditions, such as vitamin D deficiency or hypothyroidism.

Myofascial pain syndrome can be divided into acute and chronic forms. Acute myofascial pain syndrome frequently resolves spontaneously or after simple treatments. In contrast, chronic myofascial pain syndrome typically lasts for 6 months or longer and has a worse prognosis. Treatment aims to relieve pain and address underlying causes through pharmacological options, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), muscle relaxants, and antidepressants, and nonpharmacological interventions, such as physical therapy, dry needling, and acupuncture. Psychological interventions may also be beneficial, particularly for patients with concurrent depression or anxiety. Effective management often requires a multimodal approach to prevent symptom recurrence, including ergonomic modifications and addressing nutritional deficiencies.