Myofascial Pain

Everyone has experienced acute muscle pain from normal strain, injury or overuse. Most muscle pain dissipates on its own with rest and normal healing within a few days. When muscle pain persists, becoming chronic, it may be a symptom of myofascial pain syndrome. At Medici Orthopaedics & Spine, we can diagnose myofascial pain and find the right treatment to give patients long-term relief.

Myofascial pain usually occurs in muscles near the spine or joints. The muscles develop trigger points, which are small knots in the muscle that are tender and painful to the touch. These trigger points can cause localized pain in the muscle and referred pain to other areas in the body. Myofascial pain can be difficult to diagnose and treat, as there may be no specific evidence of trauma to the muscles. It is often misdiagnosed as fibromyalgia. These two conditions are similar and commonly mistaken for each other. Symptoms may include:

• Constant or chronic muscle pain
• Weakness in the muscle
• Tingling sensation
• Sleeping issues due to discomfort
• Tender spots or knots in the muscle (trigger points)

The causes of myofascial pain can vary. Overuse, poor posture, lifestyle and other factors can all contribute to myofascial pain syndrome, but the exact cause is often unknown.

Treating Myofascial Pain Syndrome

If you are diagnosed with myofascial pain syndrome, our pain physicians can create a personalized treatment plan to give you relief. Each case of myofascial pain syndrome is different, but there are treatments that help reduce or stop muscle pain. Some treatment modalities that may be included in your treatment plan are physical therapy, trigger point injections, myofascial release, and medication management.

If you have chronic or ongoing muscle pain that does not seem to respond to rest or OTC medications, come see us at Medici Orthopaedics & Spine. We will help diagnose your condition and offer a treatment plan to give you relief. Contact one of our locations in the Atlanta area to schedule your initial consultation.