What To Know About Myofascial Pain Syndrome

A man is holding his neck in pain because of myofascial pain syndrome.

If you suffer from any muscle pain, you know it can significantly reduce your quality of life. Apart from the unpleasant pain, it can also get in the way of doing sports or other physical activities and create a general inconvenience. 

 

For people with myofascial pain syndrome, pain can become a regular part of their life. While it’s not certain exactly what causes it, one thing is for sure, people need relief. Chronic pain can be debilitating and isolating, but the first step to managing the pain is to discuss your options with your healthcare provider. 

 

To learn more about myofascial pain syndrome, its symptoms, and how you can find relief, keep reading. 

 

What Is Myofascial Pain Syndrome? 

Myofascial pain syndrome is a condition that affects the body’s musculoskeletal system. While muscle pain is a common phenomenon, it usually gets resolved by itself—but that isn’t the case with myofascial pain syndrome. 

 

Myofascial pain syndrome is a disorder of the muscles and the soft tissues associated with it. People with this condition have sensitive pain points or “trigger points” in their muscles that can cause pain in that muscle or even in unrelated parts of the body (referred pain). Although myofascial pain syndrome is often confused with fibromyalgia, it is different. 

 

Trigger points develop in the fascia, the thin, ropey connective tissue that wraps around every muscle. When pressure is applied to these trigger points, it causes pain. 

 

What Is Fascia? 

The fascia performs an essential function within your body’s musculoskeletal system—it holds the muscles together, which allows them to stretch and contract. It also allows the muscle fibers, single muscles, and muscle groups to slide against each other without friction, so they don’t tear or get damaged. 

 

Apart from your muscles, the fascia also surrounds and connects all the organs and blood vessels.

 

What Are Trigger Points? 

The pain and tenderness in people with myofascial pain syndrome stem from trigger points. These trigger points can feel like small bumps or knots in the muscle. This knot is several muscle fiber segments in a contracted state within a taut band of muscle. This contraction causes the blood flow to stop, lowering the amount of oxygen the area requires. Additionally, waste materials also build up in these areas. This irritates the trigger point, which reacts by sending a pain signal. 

 

Myofascial trigger points are mainly classified into active and latent trigger points. Active trigger points create pain spontaneously or respond to any movement that could trigger local or referred pain. Conversely, latent trigger points elicit pain or discomfort only in response to compression or some stimuli. 

 

Apart from active and latent trigger points, there are also secondary and satellite trigger points. A secondary trigger point is in a different muscle than the active trigger point, but it can be irritated simultaneously as the functional trigger point. A satellite trigger point is a trigger point that overlaps with another one and is ineffective, so it becomes inactive. 

 

What Is the Difference Between Myofascial Pain Syndrome and Fibromyalgia? 

Both fibromyalgia and myofascial pain syndrome are characterized by muscle pain which is why several people mistake them or even classify them as the same condition. While they resemble each other, specific differences make it essential to recognize the difference and engage with a proper treatment plan. 

 

Fibromyalgia and myofascial pain syndrome can share symptoms like chronic muscle pain, fatigue, migraines, and numbness, but the main difference is the localization of pain. Myofascial pain is usually seen in a particular anatomic area, while fibromyalgia is more widespread. Myofascial pain syndrome can also recede, meaning that the pain might only be there for a short time, but fibromyalgia is nearly always a chronic condition. 

 

Finally, myofascial pain syndrome comes from trigger points in the muscles, while fibromyalgia comes from tender points. 

 

What Are the Symptoms of Myofascial Pain? 

Different people experience myofascial syndrome in different ways depending on the intensity of their condition. For some, the pain can flare up suddenly, but for others, it can be a dull pain that is permanently in the background. The most common symptoms of myofascial pain syndrome are: 

 

● Pain. People with this condition usually describe the pain as a deep and throbbing pain with tightness and stiffness in the muscle. The pain can be spontaneous or aggravated and localized or referred. 

● Trigger points. Small bumps, nodules, or knots in the muscle can cause pain and tenderness when touched and sometimes without being touched. 

● Twitch response. Compression can elicit a twitch response over the areas where the trigger points are located. 

● Muscle tightness. When stretching, people with myofascial pain syndrome may experience a restricted range of motion and sensitivity and soreness. 

● Local myasthenia. While there is no noticeable atrophy, the muscles with the trigger points can be susceptible to weakening. 

 

Additionally, people with this syndrome usually develop other health conditions like: 

● Headaches or migraines

● Insomnia 

● Depression

● Fatigue

 

Where Does Myofascial Pain Commonly Affect People? 

Trigger points can develop anywhere in the body, but some areas have increased prevalence, such as the upper back, shoulder, and neck muscles. 

 

What Causes Myofascial Pain Syndrome? 

 

There is no specific cause behind myofascial pain syndrome; however, several theories are being tested. One of the potential causes behind this syndrome is central sensitization, which causes people to perceive even normal stimuli as painful. 

 

Some common causes of myofascial pain syndrome include:

 

● Muscle injury or strain.

● Muscle weakness (from lack of use). 

● Poor posture.

● Cold weather

● Emotional or mental distress

● Pinched nerves. 

●   Thyroid disease

●   Diabetic neuropathy

● Vitamin deficiency 

● Chronic infections

● Genetic factors

 

Myofascial pain syndrome can affect anyone at any point in their lives. Research shows the syndrome affects about 85% of people at some point in their lifetime. Myofascial pain syndrome is a highly underdiagnosed disorder since a significant symptom is referred pain, which can easily be misdiagnosed. 

 

What Is the Best Treatment for Myofascial Pain? 

Once you receive a diagnosis, you can discuss your treatment options with your doctor. The goal of treatment is to target the trigger points to make them inactive and stretch and strengthen weak muscles. 

 

Trigger Point Injections

Trigger Point Injections (TPI) involve injecting the muscle with local anesthetic medication, saline, or cortisone to relax the area. TPIs are a highly effective treatment modality when it comes to inactivating pressure points and relieving pain. 

 

Physical Therapy 

Physical therapy is a standard option to help correct the effects of myofascial pain syndrome, like muscle shortening and tightening. Stretching and massage therapy can help relax the trigger points and correct posture and ergonomics. Common modalities include diathermy and ultrasound therapy and the spray and stretch technique, which involves spraying the muscle with a topical anesthetic and then stretching out the muscle. 

 

Dry Needling 

Although it can cause some pain or discomfort, dry needling is one of the quickest ways to inactivate trigger points. The doctor will insert a needle directly into the trigger point and stimulate it to inactivate it and reduce your pain. Some doctors may use acupuncture needles instead of hypodermic needles since they are smaller and less painful. 

 

Can Myofascial Pain Syndrome Be Cured? 

There is currently no concrete solution behind the pain mechanism and contributing factors of myofascial pain syndrome, meaning no specific cure for the condition. However, since inflammation is one of the most likely causes, engaging with treatment and making some lifestyle changes can help provide relief. 

 

The first step to take is to see a pain specialist and discuss the changes you can make to live a less painful life. Some options you can consider are: 

 

  1. Diet. Switching to an anti-inflammatory diet—a Mediterranean diet, for example—can help increase antioxidants and reduce unhealthy carbohydrates since they increase inflammation. 
  2. Exercise. While you don’t need to engage in strenuous physical activity every day, you must get regular movement. Inactive muscles can become deconditioned, which can lead to inflammation. In addition, exercise can increase endorphins, which can help reduce the stress of living with chronic pain. 
  3. Sleep. Getting enough sleep at night can help minimize the pain you experience daily. Focus on doing what you can each day to ensure you sleep better at night. 
  4. Lifestyle changes. Make some simple changes in your daily lifestyle—stop slouching, try yoga and meditation, and get enough vitamin D. 

 

 

 

Pain is sometimes unavoidable but know that you can find relief if you’re living with chronic pain. Most pain can be significantly reduced or even eliminated with the proper treatment. To learn more, get in touch with Pain Treatment Centers of America to see how you can best manage your pain. Call us at (844) 215-0731 or find a location near you to get started! 

Radiofrequency Ablation: Long-Term Pain Relief Without Surgery

October 29, 2026
Chronic pain can obviously have a massive impact on a person's life in terms of their ability to perform daily routines and their general quality of life. For people who are still suffering with pain despite having tried a range of conservative treatments, it may be time to consider other options for pain management. Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a procedure which can offer long term pain relief for some chronic pain conditions without the need for surgery. At Pain Treatment Centers of America, we take a highly individualized approach to each patient, and a key part of that is assessing their symptoms, medical history, and treatment goals to see whether RFA may be a suitable option. What Is Radiofrequency Ablation? Radiofrequency ablation is a pain management procedure that uses radiofrequency energy to heat and ablate (i.e., destroy) specific nerves responsible for transmitting pain to the brain. The aim is to reduce the pain in a particular area of the body. RFA is used for chronic pain arising from the facet joints of the spine (so in the neck and lower back) and can also be considered in some other joint pains depending on the specific condition and the individual patient. Radiofrequency ablation is very different from conventional surgery in that it doesn't require any large incisions or any significant disruption of tissue. It is generally performed under imaging guidance to assist the surgeon in correctly placing the needle adjacent to the nerve in question. Which Conditions Can Radiofrequency Ablation Treat? Radiofrequency ablation may be an option for someone who has chronic pain that hasn't responded adequately to other forms of treatment. The specific condition in question will determine whether the doctor recommends RFA. Conditions that may be treated in this way include: Chronic lower back pain associated with facet joints Chronic neck pain originating from facet joints Certain types of arthritis-related joint pain Selected cases of sacroiliac joint pain Not every patient with chronic pain qualifies for RF ablation. You need to do a proper assessment to establish the source of the pain and work out whether it's likely to be of any benefit to ablate the relevant nerves. In some cases, providers may perform a diagnostic nerve block prior to RFA. This is a temporary injection which helps to establish whether the nerves in question are the source of the patient's pain and whether RFA would be of any benefit. How Long Does Radiofrequency Ablation Provide Pain Relief? One possible benefit of radiofrequency ablation is that the pain relief can last longer than some more temporary treatments. Many patients who do well with RFA experience pain relief for around 6 to 12 months, although the duration of relief varies by patient and condition. Over time the target nerves can regenerate and the pain can come back. If the initial procedure had been very effective then RFA could be considered again following a suitable assessment. RFA can be of benefit in terms of reducing discomfort and promoting mobility, but it doesn't necessarily address the root cause of the chronic pain condition. Results are variable and some patients will see only a small degree of improvement or indeed no improvement at all. What Should Patients Expect During Recovery? Radiofrequency ablation is typically an outpatient procedure with the majority of patients being able to go home the same day. It's very common to have some degree of soreness or discomfort in the area of the treatment. Some patients will also experience a temporary increase in pain prior to the pain actually starting to improve. Pain relief may take several days to a few weeks to develop. It's important to follow the doctor's recovery instructions and to gradually get back to normal activities. Depending on the individual patient, physical therapy or other conservative measures may be recommended. Personalized Pain Management at Pain Treatment Centers of America  At Pain Treatment Centers of America we know that chronic pain is going to be different for every patient. Our approach is to look at the source of the pain and then determine what treatment options are appropriate for that individual patient based on their own needs and goals. If you're suffering with chronic neck pain, back pain or certain types of joint pain to the extent that it's impacting your day to day life then radiofrequency ablation may be worth talking about with a pain management specialist. Book a consultation with Pain Treatment Centers of America to find out more about your treatment options and to find out whether this minimally invasive procedure could be the key to longer term pain relief without the need for surgery.

The Connection Between Sleep & Chronic Pain

September 25, 2026
Chronic pain can have a variety of effects on daily life, such as impacting mobility, mood, and the general quality of life. It may also cause a significant disturbance of sleep. For those who have chronic pain, problems with falling asleep, staying asleep, or obtaining restful sleep may result in a situation where poor sleep and pain affect each other. When preparing a personalized pain management plan, Pain Treatment Centers of America considers all the various factors that may influence a patient's pain experience, including sleep. What Effect Does Sleep Have on Chronic Pain? Sleep is important for the body's capacity to recover and to regulate its normal functions; if pain makes it difficult to obtain sufficient, restful sleep, then the body will find it more difficult to cope with discomfort and fatigue. Research indicates that a lack or disruption of sleep can lead to an increased sensitivity to pain. On the other hand, chronic pain can make it hard to settle into a comfortable sleeping position or to stay asleep all night long. Thus, a cycle is formed in which pain disrupts sleep while poor sleep in turn makes the pain more difficult to control. People experiencing chronic pain may have symptoms such as: • Difficulty falling asleep • Frequent nighttime awakenings • Daytime fatigue or tiredness • Increased sensitivity to pain • Difficulty concentrating • Changes in mood or general well-being Understanding the link between sleep and chronic pain can be an important element of overall pain management. Which Kinds of Pain Can Have an Effect on Sleeping? There are many kinds of chronic pain which can make it difficult for a person to sleep comfortably. Back pain caused by arthritis, nerve pain and musculoskeletal pain can make it hard to discover a comfortable position at night, and some patients have pain that becomes more apparent when they are resting or lying down. Since there are many possible causes of both pain and sleep problems, it is important to have a thorough evaluation. Your doctor will look at your symptoms, medical history, the treatments you are currently receiving, and your sleep concerns in order to get a better understanding of how these various factors may be related. How Can Better Sleep Help with Pain Management? One way to manage chronic pain is to improve sleep. By setting regular sleep routines, making sure your sleeping environment is comfortable, and talking with your healthcare professional about ongoing sleep problems, you may be able to get better rest. It is also important to treat the underlying pain condition if the pain is affecting your sleep. Your doctor may suggest conservative treatments, medication, physical therapy, interventional procedures, or other pain management methods depending on your circumstances.  Personalized Pain Management at Pain Treatment Centers of America We at Pain Treatment Centers of America know chronic pain affects each patient differently, and our experienced doctors take an all-encompassing approach when assessing pain, considering symptoms, medical history, daily activities, and treatment goals. If finding it hard to get restful sleep is due to chronic pain, a tailored pain management assessment might assist in identifying suitable treatment options. You should schedule a consultation with Pain Treatment Centers of America to discuss your symptoms and learn more about strategies to control chronic pain and support your overall well-being

Spinal Cord Stimulation: Who Is a Candidate and What to Expect

August 28, 2026
Chronic pain can impact many areas of daily life, particularly when it continues despite medications, physical therapy, or other conservative treatments. For some, spinal cord stimulation (SCS) may provide an alternative for managing ongoing pain and enhancing function. At Pain Treatment Centers of America, we study each patient’s well-being, medical history, and treatment goals to determine if SCS is suitable as part of a personalized pain management plan. What Is Spinal Cord Stimulation? This pain management treatment uses a small, implanted device to deliver mild electrical signals near the spinal cord. These signals can change how pain messages get to the brain, which may reduce chronic pain intensity. SCS is most commonly considered for certain types of chronic pain. SCS is typically considered for chronic nerve-related pain, such as pain that persists after surgery or does not respond to other treatments. It is not intended for all types of pain, and eligibility is based on individual factors. Stimulation may be considered for adults experiencing chronic pain that has not improved sufficiently with more conservative treatments. Candidates may have conditions such as: Chronic back or leg pain Nerve pain or neuropathy Persistent pain following spinal surgery Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) Specific types of chronic pain which have not reacted based on other treatments A thorough evaluation is essential before considering SCS. Your provider will review your symptoms, prior treatments, imaging, medical history, and overall health. A psychological evaluation may also be recommended to determine if an implanted device is appropriate. What Happens Before Spinal Cord Stimulation? For most patients, SCS starts with a trial period instead of immediate permanent implantation. During the trial, providers place temporary leads near the spinal cord and connect them to an external generator. This helps patients and providers assess whether stimulation delivers considerable pain relief and enhanced function. The trial lets patients experience the effects of spinal cord stimulation before deciding on permanent implantation. What to Expect During Permanent Implantation If the trial is successful, you may proceed with a permanent SCS system. Leads are placed near the spinal cord, and the pulse generator is positioned under the skin. The system is programmed to deliver stimulation based on your needs. As with any medical procedure, the stimulation involves possible risks and may not be appropriate for everyone. Your provider will review the benefits, risks, alternatives, and expected recovery before treatment. Personalized Pain Management at Pain Treatment Centers of America At Pain Treatment Centers of America, we recognize that chronic pain has many causes and affects each patient differently. Our experienced providers use a complete approach to diagnosis and treatment, considering your symptoms and goals.  If you have serious back, nerve, or persistent pain despite other treatments, spinal cord stimulation may be an option to consider. Schedule a consultation with Pain Treatment Centers of America to see whether you are a candidate for SCS and to discuss appropriate treatment options.

How Poor Posture Contributes to Chronic Pain (and How to Fix It)

July 31, 2026
Many people spend hours each day sitting at a desk, looking down at a phone, or driving between appointments without realizing how these habits affect their bodies. Over time, poor posture places excessive stress on muscles, joints, and the spine, leading to chronic pain that interferes with daily life. At Pain Treatment Centers of America, we help patients identify the causes of persistent pain and develop bespoke treatment plans that improve function, mobility, and well-being. How Poor Posture Leads to Chronic Pain Proper posture keeps your body aligned, allowing muscles, ligaments, and joints to work efficiently. When posture is compromised—whether from slouching, hunching over a computer, or standing unevenly—certain muscles become overworked while others weaken. Such imbalance places unnecessary strain on the spine and surrounding tissues. Over time, poor posture leads to chronic pain in several areas of the body, including: Neck and shoulders Upper and lower back Hips and pelvis Knees Head, leading to tension headaches Many people don’t notice the effects immediately, but repeated poor posture can gradually cause inflammation, muscle fatigue, nerve irritation, and reduced flexibility. Common Signs Your Posture May Be Causing Pain Poor posture often develops slowly, making it hard to recognize until discomfort becomes persistent. Typical symptoms include: Frequent neck or shoulder stiffness Ongoing lower back pain Muscle tightness after sitting for long periods Headaches which start at the base of the skull Rounded shoulders or a forward head position Fatigue from standing or sitting throughout the day If these symptoms continue despite rest or over-the-counter treatments, it may be time for a medical assessment. Simple Ways to Improve Your Posture Improving posture doesn’t happen overnight, but small daily changes can greatly reduce pain and prevent future problems. Consider these healthy habits: Sit with both feet flat on the floor and your back supported. Keep computer monitors at eye level to reduce neck strain. Take regular breaks to move your body throughout the day. Strengthen muscles in your core to better support your spine. Practice posture awareness while standing, walking, and lifting objects. Try not to look down at your phone for longer periods of time by raising the screen closer to eye level. These simple adjustments can reduce stress on your body and improve comfort during daily activities. When Professional Treatment Is Needed While posture correction helps many people, chronic pain may require additional medical care, especially if poor posture has caused joint dysfunction, nerve irritation, or long-term muscle imbalances. A complete evaluation can determine whether posture is causing your symptoms and identify other underlying conditions that may be involved. Depending on your diagnosis, treatment may include: Physical therapy and guided rehabilitation Interventional pain management procedures Trigger point or joint injections Medication management when appropriate Personalized exercise recommendations Education on body mechanics and ergonomics Combining posture correction with targeted treatment often provides the greatest long-term relief. Personalized Chronic Pain Care at Pain Treatment Centers of America At Pain Treatment Centers of America, we understand chronic pain is rarely caused by a single factor. Our experienced providers evaluate the whole person to identify the root cause of discomfort and create individualized treatment plans that support lasting relief. Whether your pain stems from poor posture, repetitive strain, or another underlying condition, we’re committed to helping you improve mobility, restore function, and return to the activities you enjoy.  If chronic neck, back, or shoulder pain is impacting your quality of life, schedule a consultation with Pain Treatment Centers of America today. Together, let’s customize a treatment plan that helps you stand taller, move more comfortably, and live with less pain.

When Pain Isn’t Structural: Understanding Neuropathic Pain

June 26, 2026
Pain is often associated with injury, arthritis, or another structural problem in the body. However, not all pain comes from damaged bones, joints, muscles, or tissues. Sometimes, the nervous system itself causes discomfort. This pain is called neuropathic pain and can greatly affect quality of life. At Pain Treatment Centers of America, we help patients determine the source of their symptoms and develop personalized plans to manage chronic nerve pain effectively. What Is Neuropathic Pain? Neuropathic pain happens when nerves are damaged, irritated, or dysfunctional. Unlike pain from injury or inflammation, it results from abnormal signaling within the nervous system. These disrupted signals cause the brain to sense pain even without ongoing tissue damage. Patients commonly describe neuropathic pain as burning, tingling, shooting, electric-like, or stabbing. Some may experience numbness, elevated sensitivity to touch, or pain that seems disproportionate to any physical findings. Common Causes of Neuropathic Pain Neuropathic pain can develop from a variety of conditions that affect the nerves or nervous system. Some common causes include: Diabetes-related nerve damage (diabetic neuropathy) Herniated discs are causing nerve compression Shingles and postherpetic neuralgia Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) Multiple sclerosis Spinal cord injuries Stroke-related nerve damage Chemotherapy-induced neuropathy Symptoms can vary widely, so proper evaluation is key for accurate diagnosis and efficient treatment. Neuropathic pain is often challenging to identify because imaging exams like X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs may not always reveal the source of the problem. Patients may experience significant pain despite having slight structural abnormalities. A complete evaluation includes medical history, physical exam, neurological assessment, and diagnostic tests when needed. Identifying nerve involvement is critical because neuropathic pain often responds differently to treatment than musculoskeletal pain. Treatment Options for Neuropathic Pain Successful treatment focuses on addressing the underlying cause when possible while reducing symptoms and improving function. Depending on the patient’s condition, treatment options may include: Medication management designed specifically for nerve pain Nerve block injections Physical therapy and rehabilitation Spinal cord stimulation Lifestyle alterations Interventional pain management procedures Many benefit from an approach that combines several therapies for the best outcomes. When to Seek Professional Care Persistent burning, tingling, numbness, or shooting pain should not be ignored. Early diagnosis and treatment prevent worsening symptoms and improve long-term outcomes. If you have ongoing pain not connected to a structural injury, it may be time to explore if neuropathic pain is the cause. An extensive evaluation can determine the source of your symptoms and identify the most effective treatments. Personalized Neuropathic Pain Treatment at Pain Treatment Centers of America At Pain Treatment Centers of America, we understand that chronic pain is complex and every patient’s experience is unique. Our team uses sophisticated diagnostic tools and evidence-based treatments to identify nerve-related pain and create individualized care plans to improve comfort, mobility, and quality of life. If you are experiencing persistent nerve pain symptoms, schedule a consultation with Pain Treatment Centers of America today. Together, we can develop a treatment plan designed to help you regain control of your daily activities and move toward lasting relief.
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