Myofascial Pain Syndrome
Myofascial pain syndrome is a chronic muscle pain condition caused by sensitive spots in the muscle, known as trigger points, which can refer pain to other parts of the body. It often shows up as a deep, stubborn ache in the neck, shoulders or lower back that doesn’t settle with rest, and pressing on one spot can send pain somewhere else entirely. Over time it can chip away at your sleep, your concentration and your energy for everyday things.
What Causes Myofascial Pain Syndrome?
Trigger points tend to develop in muscles that are overworked, held in one position for too long, or recovering from an injury. Perhaps you spend long days at a desk with your shoulders creeping up towards your ears, or your job involves a lot of repetitive lifting. Poor posture, stress, disrupted sleep and muscle imbalance between opposing muscle groups can all keep those knots active.
General muscle soreness fades within a few days. Myofascial pain syndrome hangs around for weeks or months. Common signs include:
- A deep, aching pain in a specific muscle
- Tight, tender knots you can feel under the skin
- Pain that spreads to another area when the knot is pressed
- Stiffness and reduced range of movement
- Poor sleep because of the discomfort
Our Treatment for Myofascial Pain
Our physios start by finding which trigger points are driving your pain and, just as importantly, why they keep coming back. Treatment usually combines hands-on work to calm the sensitive areas with changes that stop them re-forming.
Massage therapy is hugely important, using sustained pressure and soft tissue release to ease the tight bands in the muscle and improve circulation. Acupuncture can also help settle stubborn trigger points. Physiotherapy then looks at the bigger picture: stretching, strengthening weaker muscles, and ergonomic advice for your desk or workplace so your muscles aren’t under constant strain. As the pain eases and you want to get back to the gym or your sport, sports therapy helps you rebuild strength and conditioning at a level your body can tolerate.
Many people notice a difference within a few appointments, although longer-standing cases can take several weeks to settle fully.
“After having severe muscular related headaches for some time I booked an 8 week course of massage. Sakshi was brilliant. She explained everything, showed me the muscles we were working on and got to work. The tightness and knots gradually disappeared and with the exercises she gave me, I am headache free.” Gillian Berry – Skipton
Why Choose True Physio?
Expert Physiotherapy Team
All of our Physiotherapists are registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC), which means that they fulfil the highest standards of practice required by law. They are also a part of the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy (CSP), demonstrating our commitment to delivering outstanding expertise.
Initial Assessment
At your initial assessment at True Physio, we will find out where your pain comes from and what your goal is before forming a plan to help you achieve that. Our clinicians will take the time to understand your condition, do a detailed assessment, and explain to you the nature of the problem you have. Treatment plans are created with your lifestyle in mind.
Book an appointment and let’s get your myofascial pain under control.
