Myofascial Pain Syndrome Treatment in Delray Beach, FL
What is Myofascial Pain Syndrome?
Myofascial pain syndrome (MPS) is a chronic condition that causes pain in the muscles and the tissue called fascia which is a dense, strong but thin connective tissue that forms the framework of your body and holds the muscles in place. MPS presents pain and inflammation in the body’s soft tissues. From an osteopathic perspective, the pain is called somatic dysfunction. The muscles may develop tender points called trigger points.
Treat your chronic pain with the help of our board-certified pain medicine physician, Dr. Marcie A. Merson. Contact our pain management clinic in Delray Beach, FL to schedule a one-on-one consultation by calling (561) 499-7020.
What Causes Myofascial Pain Syndrome?
Myofascial pain may develop from an injured or strained muscle, ligament, or tendon. This pain often occurs after a muscle has been contracted repetitively.
Other causes may include:
- Repetitive motions used in jobs or hobbies
- Stress-related muscle tension overuse
- Poor posture
- Somatic dysfunction
This pain is confined to a particular area and is associated with trigger points in the muscles. Trigger points are dense, tight cords of muscle called taut bands that typically have a larger area of referred pain and a focal point that is very tender. This means that the trigger points can radiate pain to other areas of the body.
What are the Symptoms of Myofascial Pain Syndrome?
There are two main types of MPS, acute and chronic.
Acute MPS frequently resolves spontaneously or after simple treatments, while chronic MPS symptoms are usually worse and can last for six months or longer.
Symptoms that may mean you have MPS include:
Muscle Pain:
- Aching
- Throbbing
- Tight
- Stiff
- Confined to a particular area
Trigger points:
- Small bumps, nodules, or knots in your muscle
- Causes pain when touched
- Radiate pain to the affected area
- Can also cause pain spontaneously with no pressure
If you experience any muscle pain, talk with Dr. Merson for a consultation. Often this pain can get in the way of everyday activities and impair your quality of life.
How Do I Know If I Have Myofascial Pain Syndrome?
Dr. Merson will do a physical exam to see what happens when gentle pressure is applied. You may need imaging or other diagnostic tests to rule out other conditions that may be causing pain.
Be sure to talk to your Dr. Merson about when, how, and how frequently you experience the pain. As you discuss your symptoms and lifestyle factors, it will give a more complete picture to diagnose myofascial pain syndrome.
Treatment for Myofascial Pain Syndrome
If you have MPS, there are several treatment options. Often, it will depend on the severity of your pain as well as the location.
Treatment for Myofascial Pain Syndrome may include:
- Heat
- Physical Modalities
- Stretching
- Exercise
- Trigger point dry (TRP) needling
- Local anesthetic injection
- Nerve stimulation
- Massage
- Osteopathic Manual Therapy (OMT)
Benefits of Myofascial Pain Syndrome include:
- Improved range of motion
- Decreased muscle tone
- Decreased pain
There are several options to help you get relief for your pain. As you discuss your treatment plan with Dr. Merson, you will find the right path for you.
When to Get Help for Myofascial Pain Syndrome
Untreated, the myofascial pain syndrome can lead to:
- A reduced ability to extend or stretch the muscle
- Consecutive decrease in the range of motion
- Imbalanced muscles
- Coordination issues
- Evolution of a chronic pain disease
Schedule a Myofascial Pain Syndrome Consultation in Delray Beach, FL
Don’t let Myofascial Pain Syndrome affect your quality of life. Contact our board-certified physician Dr. Marcie A. Merson to schedule a treatment consultation. Schedule an appointment at our pain management clinic in Delray Beach, FL by filling out our secure form.