What is myofascial pain?
Myofascial pain is an intense regional pain that occurs in the muscles, mainly in the back, neck and shoulders. It is a very common pain, even in people who do not have any disease.
What symptoms does it cause?
The symptom of this syndrome is muscle pain: it feels like a firm knot inside the muscle, and pressing or moving it accentuates the pain.
Why does myofascial pain occur?
Myofascial pain is usually caused by poor posture, small injuries, soft tissue tension or rheumatoid arthritis, gout, thyroid problems or psoriasis among other diseases.
Can it be prevented?
To prevent myofascial pain it is advisable to maintain a good posture, avoid forcing the joints and treat related diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis.
What is its treatment?
In many cases of myofascial pain the symptoms go away on their own, as with many soft tissue syndromes such as tendonitis. Medical treatment will be based on reducing pain and inflammation, as well as preserving mobility and preventing disability. For this purpose, anti-inflammatory drugs and the application of heat and cold to the affected area are usually prescribed. The family physician or rheumatologist will advise the patient to rest.
Muscle massage and ultrasound wave therapy may also be used to relieve myofascial pain.