Myofascial Pain is the term that was coined by Janet Travell to describe the pain that arises from trigger points.
This condition has a long history and has been called many other names in the past including fibrositis, myologenosis, fibrotic nodules, etc.
Myo means muscle and fascia is the fibrous membrane that surrounds the muscle. This membrane has lots of nerve endings and functions to join together and smooth out individual muscle function so that we can make smooth movements.
Syndrome is a term that describes a collection of symptoms. Myofascial Pain Syndrome is not a disease. Diseases are destructive and get worse with time. For example, cancer or pneumonia are diseases, where unless you treat them, damage or death occurs.
A syndrome tends to not get worse with time, but follows an up-and-down course. It may flair, and then get better, and get worse again. Often, it may go on for years.
So, Myofascial Pain Syndrome is pain caused by trigger points muscles. The pain is transmitted to the brain through the nerves in the fascia. And it tends to be chronic, but not destructive.
The good news is that nobody ever died from Myofascial Pain Syndrome.
The bad news is that it can go on for years.
The best news is that it’s fairly easily diagnosed and can be treated effectively.
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{ 4 comments… read them below or add one }
if i visit a therapist how many visits would i need as being a senior citizen i need to budget
Your info on Myafascial Syndrome sounds like
the symtoms I have, but I have been told that I have Polymyalgia.
Could you enlighten me?
This has been with me for nearly two years if not more.
Hello Moira
Poylmyalgia Rheumatica is a condition where there is actual inflammation of the muscle [usually in your shoulders, neck and arms.] You have very achey muscles and feel like you have the flu [ although you dont]. This inflammation can be picked in two blood tests- namely the ESR and CRP which are both significantly raised. Treatment involves the use of cortisone tablets [prednisone or prednisolone usually] and you continue this until the condition burns itself out.
In a myofascial pain sydrome- you also have achey muscles, but there is NO evidence of inflammation in the blood. The underlying problem are small areas of spasm in the muscles which are called trigger points. Cortisone does not improve these and they require specific treatments which you can find on this website.
regards
Jonathan Kuttner
Trigger points
Hello Mary
This is a difficult question to answer. Firstly what is the underlying problem? If it is actually trigger points. How many are there?
Is there some other underlying problem which will complicate the treatments? Do you have other illnesses which will affect your ability to heal.
Lastly – how good is your therapist? There are some that really understand triggerpoints and treat them effectively and others who dont.
A good start is to read the information in the website. Then visit your most trusted healthcare practitioner and discuss it further.
regards
Jonathan Kuttner