Myofascial pain syndrome is a disorder characterized by chronic muscle pain. “Myo” refers to the muscles, while “fascial” refers to the fascia. The fascia is a continuous sheet of thin tissue that encases the muscles and organs. While it is generally a wavy, flexible structure, it becomes rigid after an injury, which can impact physical and psychological health all over the body.
While there are many different pain disorders, there are a few characteristics of myofascial pain syndrome that make it so distinct. Furthermore, myofascial pain is difficult to diagnose, because of the lack of specific testing. This makes it extremely important to understand the symptoms specific to this disorder.
Ongoing Pain
Myofascial pain syndrome differs from general muscle pain and discomfort in a few very distinct aspects. First and foremost, muscle pain usually goes away after a few days. Myofascial pain, on the other hand, doesn’t get better and may even continue to get worse as time goes on. You will notice localized pain, generally restricted to a muscle or group of muscles. Most patients report it feels like an ongoing ache, deep within the muscle. You may find it difficult to sleep, particularly if the affected muscles are in the back, because it can make it difficult to find a comfortable position.
Trigger Points
The other distinct difference of myofascial pain syndrome is the presence of trigger points. You may notice the sensation of a knot in the muscle. This is likely the trigger point. Essentially, the injury or strain occurs at a particular spot, and as a result the muscle fibers become inflexible. This particular spot -- the trigger point -- can in turn cause the entire muscle or muscle group to ache, which is called referred pain. Additionally, there are three different types of trigger points. An inactive trigger point is a spot that causes localized pain, while a latent trigger point, only holds the potential to cause this pain. Secondary trigger points are spots that muscular overuse and another trigger point make irritated. A satellite myofascial point is a similar irritable point, but rather than becoming irritated, it stops acting as a trigger point for that particular muscle because a separate trigger point takes over.
Complications
The most commonly reported complication of myofascial pain syndrome is interrupted sleep. However, although myofascial pain syndrome can cause fatigue in this way, there also seems to be some suggestion that poor sleep and fatigue may be inciting episodes of myofascial pain syndrome as well.
Another concern surrounding myofascial pain syndrome is the development of fibromyalgia. Fibromyalgia is another type of pain disorder, also chronic. However, while myofascial pain syndrome is localized, fibromyalgia causes pain all over the body, and may be felt in the bones as well as the muscles. Furthermore, while myofascial pain syndrome usually presents as a result of injury, the cause of fibromyalgia is still unknown.
