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Classification, epidemiology, and natural history of myofascial pain syndrome

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Abstract

Myofascial pain syndrome is a disease of muscle that produces local and referred pain. It is characterized by a motor abnormality (a taut or hard band within the muscle) and by sensory abnormalities (tenderness and referred pain). It is classified as a musculoskeletal pain syndrome that can be acute or chronic, regional or generalized. It can be a primary disorder causing local or regional pain syndromes, or a secondary disorder that occurs as a consequence of some other condition. When it becomes chronic, it tends to generalize, but it does not change to fibromyalgia. It is a treatable condition that can respond well to manual and injection techniques, but requires attention to postural, ergonomic, and structural factors, and toxic or metabolic factors that impair muscle function.

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  1. Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University, 7830 Old Georgetown Road, 20814-2432, Bethesda, MD, USA

    Robert D. Gerwin MD

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  1. Robert D. Gerwin MD
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Gerwin, R.D. Classification, epidemiology, and natural history of myofascial pain syndrome. Current Science Inc 5, 412–420 (2001). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11916-001-0052-8

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11916-001-0052-8

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