Myofascial Pain Treatment: What Are Your Options?

Myofascial pain is a chronic disorder that involves pressure on sensitive points (called “trigger points”) that causes pain in other parts of your body, also known as referred pain. Myofascial pain typically occurs following constant and repetitive movements of the muscle, mostly from a specific occupation- or stress-related muscle tension. Symptoms of myofascial pain can include trigger points that are tender to the touch, deep aching pain in the muscle, pain that persists or worsens, difficulty sleeping due to the pain, and tender knots in the muscles. Myofascial pain can be a complex condition, but there are various treatment options available to cater to your specific needs. We will develop a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach to ensure the most effective plan for you.

Treatment options include:

• Botox® injections
• Pain medicine management
• Trigger point injections
• Alternative therapies

Botox injections

Botox, also known as botulinum toxin type A, comes from the bacterium Clostridium Botulinum. Many people believe that Botox injections are only used to decrease the appearance of wrinkles, but Botox can also reduce or relieve chronic pain, including myofascial pain. Small amounts of Botox injected into the muscles blocks the release of neurotransmitters and allows the muscles to relax and alleviate spasms and constant muscle-related pain. Because of its ability to treat a targeted area quickly and safely, Botox works great for treating myofascial pain.

Pain management with medications

Severe and constant pain is not something anyone should have to endure on a daily basis, and that is where prescription medications can come into play, under the discretion of our physicians. Common medications used are over the counter pain relievers, antidepressants and sedatives. Pain medication may be an option to use concurrently while we evaluate and treat the source of your pain to achieve long-term, permanent relief.

Trigger point injections

Trigger point injections are also a great option for myofascial pain treatment. Trigger points are muscle “knots” that form when muscle fibers become tangled or distorted. A numbing agent, usually a corticosteroid or a botanical agent like Sarapin, is injected at these points to help loosen the area by blocking inflammation and soothing muscle spasms or adhesions.

Alternative therapies

Lastly, alternative therapies, especially when used concurrently with some of the primary treatment options, can provide supplemental relief from myofascial pain. In addition to your treatment plan, talk to your doctor about incorporating activities such as:

• Yoga
• Acupuncture
• Massage
• Meditation
• Hypnotherapy
• Stretching
• Posture training
• Heat application
• Physical therapy

If you are worried you may be suffering from myofascial pain, give the experts at Pain Management and Injury Relief a call today at (877) 724-6349 to discuss your symptoms and treatment options.