Myofascial Pain Syndrome

How Common is Myofascial Pain Syndrome?

Myofascial pain syndrome is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is estimated that up to 85% of people experience some form of myofascial pain at some point in their lives. Myofascial pain is more common in women than in men and is more likely to affect people over the age of 30.

Causes of Myofascial Pain Syndrome

There are several factors that can contribute to the development of myofascial pain syndrome. Some of the most common causes include:

• Trauma: Trauma to the muscles and soft tissues, such as from a fall, car accident, or sports injury, can cause myofascial pain.
• Repetitive Motion: Repetitive motions, such as those performed during certain jobs or sports activities, can cause myofascial pain over time.
• Poor Posture: Poor posture can cause strain on the muscles and fascia, leading to myofascial pain.
• Stress: Stress can cause tension in the muscles, leading to myofascial pain.
• Inactivity: Inactivity and a lack of movement can cause the muscles to become stiff and tense, leading to myofascial pain.

Symptoms of Myofascial Pain Syndrome

The symptoms of myofascial pain syndrome can vary depending on the severity of the condition and the muscles affected. Some of the most common symptoms include:

• Pain: Pain in the affected muscles is the most common symptom of myofascial pain syndrome. The pain may be mild or severe and may be felt as a deep ache or a sharp, stabbing pain.
• Tenderness: The affected muscles may be tender to the touch, and pressure on the trigger points may cause pain.
• Stiffness: The affected muscles may feel stiff and may be difficult to move.
• Limited Range of Motion: The pain and stiffness in the affected muscles can lead to a limited range of motion and difficulty with movement.

Problems Caused by Myofascial Pain Syndrome

Myofascial pain syndrome can cause several problems for people suffering from the condition. The pain and stiffness in the affected muscles can make it difficult to perform daily activities and can interfere with work and leisure activities. Myofascial pain can also lead to poor posture and compensatory movements, which can lead to further muscle imbalances and pain.

Treatments for Myofascial Pain Syndrome

There are several treatments available for myofascial pain syndrome, including:

• Medications: Pain relievers, anti-inflammatories, and muscle relaxants can be prescribed to help manage pain and inflammation.
• Physical Therapy: Physical therapy can help to improve range of motion and flexibility in the affected muscles.
• Massage Therapy: Massage therapy can help to relieve muscle tension and improve blood flow to the affected muscles, which can help to reduce pain.
• Trigger Point Injections: Trigger point injections involve injecting a local anesthetic or steroid medication into the trigger point to help relieve pain and reduce inflammation.
• Chiropractic Care: Chiropractic care involves the manipulation of the spine and joints to help improve function and reduce pain. Chiropractors can also use other techniques, such as soft tissue mobilization and stretching, to help alleviate myofascial pain.

Common Side-Effects of Typical Treatments for Myofascial Pain Syndrome

While there are several treatments available for myofascial pain syndrome, they can also come with side effects. Some of the most common side effects of typical treatments for myofascial pain syndrome include:

• Medications: Pain relievers, anti-inflammatories, and muscle relaxants can cause side effects such as drowsiness, nausea, and constipation.
• Physical Therapy: Physical therapy can sometimes cause muscle soreness or fatigue, especially when first starting out.
• Massage Therapy: Massage therapy can cause soreness or bruising in the affected muscles.
• Trigger Point Injections: Trigger point injections can cause soreness or bruising at the injection site.

Why Chiropractic Care is One of the Best Choices for Treating Myofascial Pain Syndrome

Chiropractic care is one of the best choices for treating myofascial pain syndrome because it is non-invasive, safe, effective, and can help decrease pain effectively. Chiropractic care allows for better management and healing more completely. Chiropractors can also help decrease inflammation as well as increase range of motion and ease of movement.

Chiropractors use a variety of techniques to help alleviate myofascial pain, including spinal manipulation, soft tissue mobilization, and stretching. Chiropractors can also provide advice on posture, exercise, and other lifestyle changes that can help reduce the likelihood of myofascial pain recurring.

In addition, chiropractic care is a drug-free approach to treating myofascial pain syndrome. This means that patients do not have to worry about the side effects that can come with medications. Chiropractic care is also safe for most people, including those with chronic pain or other underlying medical conditions.

Conclusion

Myofascial pain syndrome is a common condition that can cause chronic pain, tenderness, and stiffness in the muscles and surrounding tissues. The condition can be caused by a variety of factors, including trauma, poor posture, repetitive motion, and stress. There are several treatments available for myofascial pain syndrome, including medications, physical therapy, massage therapy, trigger point injections, and chiropractic care. Chiropractic care is one of the best choices for treating myofascial pain syndrome because it is non-invasive, safe, effective, and can help decrease pain effectively. Chiropractors can also help decrease inflammation as well as increase range of motion and ease of movement. If you would like to feel better as quickly as possible, contact Dr. Post at Zumbrota Chiropractic today.