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Treatment of myofascial pain syndrome

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Abstract

Myofascial pain syndrome (MPS) is caused by myofascial trigger points (MTrPs) located within taut bands of skeletal muscle fibers. Treating the underlying etiologic lesion responsible for MTrP activation is the most important strategy in MPS therapy. If the underlying pathology is not given the appropriate treatment, the MTrP cannot be completely and permanently inactivated. Treatment of active MTrPs may be necessary in situations in which active MTrPs persist even after the underlying etiologic lesion has been treated appropriately. When treating the active MTrPs or their underlying pathology, conservative treatment should be given before aggressive therapy. Effective MTrP therapies include manual therapies, physical therapy modalities, dry needling, or MTrP injection. It is also important to eliminate any perpetuating factors and provide adequate education and home programs to patients so that recurrent or chronic pain can be avoided.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Physical Therapy, Hungkuang University, 34 Chung-Chie Road, Shalu, Taichung, Taiwan

    Chang-Zern Hong MD

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  1. Chang-Zern Hong MD
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Correspondence to Chang-Zern Hong MD.

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Hong, CZ. Treatment of myofascial pain syndrome. Current Science Inc 10, 345–349 (2006). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11916-006-0058-3

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11916-006-0058-3

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