Myofascial pain syndrome is a condition that causes chronic muscle pain due to sensitive areas called trigger points.
Myofascial pain syndrome is a condition that causes chronic muscle pain due to sensitive areas called trigger points. These are tight knots in muscle tissue that can be painful when pressed and may cause pain in other parts of the body.
This condition commonly affects the neck, shoulders, and upper back, but it can occur in any muscle.
Common symptoms of myofascial pain syndrome include:
Some people may also experience:
Symptoms may start in one area and spread over time.
The exact cause is not fully understood, but several factors may contribute.
Common contributing factors include:
These factors can lead to muscle tightness and trigger point formation.
A thorough diagnosis begins with a detailed medical history and physical examination.
Diagnostic tools may include:
Advanced imaging helps determine whether the annular tear is the primary source of pain and whether a nerve is compressed.
Diagnosis is based on a physical examination. A doctor will check for:
There are no specific imaging tests for myofascial pain syndrome, but tests may be used to rule out other conditions.
These are common treatment approaches for this condition. Not every treatment listed is offered at Urban Spine and Joint. Please contact us to ask about the treatments we provide.
Treatment focuses on relieving pain and improving muscle function.
Common treatment options include:
Additional treatments may include:
A combination of therapies is often most effective in managing symptoms.
Deep, aching muscle pain centered around tender knots called trigger points, often in the neck, shoulders, or upper back. It commonly comes with muscle stiffness, spasms, and pain that worsens with activity or stress.
The exact cause isn’t fully understood, but common contributing factors include poor posture, repetitive muscle use, muscle strain or injury, structural imbalances like leg length differences, and stress or emotional tension.
Yes — some people also experience fatigue, sleep disturbances, or mood changes like anxiety or depression alongside the muscle pain, especially as symptoms persist or spread.
It can. Pain often starts in one muscle group and, over time, may spread to other areas as trigger points develop nearby or in related muscles.
Treatment commonly includes physical therapy, stretching, and trigger point injections, along with addressing contributing factors like posture and stress.