Myofascial Pain Syndrome
As a result of injury or prolonged physical stress, 'trigger points' develop in various muscles. "Trigger points" are tender nodules that refer pain in predictable patterns. When viewed under a microscope, these "trigger points" resemble areas of micro trauma. Once present, excessive contraction or stretch of a muscle containing trigger points will trigger pain. Similarly, complete lack of motion does not permit proper blood flow or proper healing.
Diagnosis of Myofascial Pain Syndrome
Because this condition can mimic many other disorders, it is necessary to perform a detailed physical examination and at times order various laboratory tests. If the physician finds 1) the presence of trigger points and 2) the absence of other conditions to explain the patient's symptoms, then the patient has the myofascial pain syndrome.
Ways to Alleviate Symptoms
Often to break the vicious cycle of myofascial pain, several measures must be taken for a short period of time. Physical therapy, consisting of heat and electrical modalities, as well as the 'spray and stretch technique' and an individualized home exercise program can help you to regain painless stretch of involved muscles. 'Spray and stretch' is a sophisticated technique which only specially trained physical therapists are capable of employing to regain normal stretch ability of muscles. People whose trigger points are resistant to the above mentioned measures often benefit from 'trigger point injections' with a local anesthetic. When used in combination with physical therapy techniques immediately thereafter, by an experienced physician, this is quite effective in restoring normal muscle function and thus reducing pain.