Myofascial Pain Syndrome (MPS) is a common yet often misunderstood condition that affects millions of people. Characterized by painful “knots” or tight bands within the muscles, MPS can lead to localized pain, referred pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. These sensitive spots - known as trigger points - can interfere with daily activities, athletic performance, and overall quality of life.
While many people attempt to manage symptoms with stretching or rest, myofascial pain typically requires a more targeted and comprehensive approach. Physical therapy plays a critical role in identifying and treating trigger points, addressing the underlying causes, and restoring healthy muscle function.
What Is Myofascial Pain Syndrome?
Myofascial Pain Syndrome occurs when muscle fibers become overly tight, irritated, or dysfunctional. These irritated muscle fibers form trigger points, which are tender areas that can cause pain both at the site of the knot and in other regions of the body - a phenomenon known as referred pain.
Common areas affected include the:
- Neck and shoulders
- Low back
- Hips and glutes
- Jaw (often contributing to TMJ issues)
- Calves and hamstrings
Unlike general muscle soreness, MPS does not go away quickly and often worsens without proper treatment.
What Causes Trigger Points?
Trigger points can develop for several reasons, including:
1. Muscle Overuse
Repetitive movements, poor lifting mechanics, and athletic training can overload specific muscles.
2. Poor Posture
Forward-head posture, rounded shoulders, or prolonged sitting can strain the neck, upper back, and low-back muscles.
3. Stress and Tension
Emotional stress can lead to muscle guarding, creating excessive tension that contributes to trigger points.
4. Injury or Trauma
An acute strain, whiplash, fall, or post-surgical compensation can lead to muscle dysfunction.
5. Weakness or Imbalance
When some muscles are weak or underactive, others become overworked, leading to tightness and irritation.
6. Lack of Movement
Sedentary lifestyles or long periods of immobilization promote stiff, dysfunctional muscle patterns.
Symptoms of Myofascial Pain Syndrome
MPS may present with a variety of symptoms depending on which muscles are affected:
- Tender knots or tight bands within the muscle
- Local or referred pain (radiating pain from the trigger point)
- Muscle stiffness or limited range of motion
- Dull, aching pain that worsens with activity or prolonged posture
- Muscle weakness or fatigue
- Headaches, jaw pain, or shoulder discomfort related to upper-body trigger points
Trigger points often create predictable pain patterns that a trained physical therapist can identify.
How Physical Therapy Helps Treat Myofascial Pain Syndrome
Physical therapy is one of the most effective treatments for MPS because it targets both the root cause of the pain and the symptoms themselves. At Core Performance Physical Therapy, treatment typically includes a combination of manual therapy, movement retraining, and corrective exercise.
1. Manual Trigger Point Release
Physical therapists use hands-on techniques to apply pressure directly to trigger points, reducing tension and improving blood flow.
2. Myofascial Release
This technique involves gentle, sustained pressure to release restricted tissue and restore normal mobility.
3. Dry Needling (if offered)
Dry needling targets trigger points to decrease pain, reduce muscle tension, and improve function.
4. Soft Tissue Mobilization
Massaging affected muscles and surrounding tissues helps decrease tightness and promote healing.
5. Corrective Strengthening
Weak muscles often contribute to the development of trigger points. Strengthening helps restore balanced movement and reduces overuse of compensatory muscles.
6. Posture and Movement Training
Improving posture, lifting mechanics, and functional movement can prevent trigger points from returning.
7. Stretching and Mobility Work
Targeted stretching helps lengthen shortened tissues and support long-term flexibility.
8. Stress Management Strategies
Since stress influences muscle tension, PTs may incorporate breathing techniques or movement strategies to reduce overall tension.
Trigger Points and Referred Pain Patterns
A hallmark of MPS is that pain may appear in one area but originate from another. For example:
- Trigger points in the glutes may cause low-back or leg pain
- Tight upper trapezius muscles may refer pain into the head or jaw
- Cervical trigger points may mimic shoulder or arm discomfort
Understanding these patterns is key to accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.
When to See a Physical Therapist for Myofascial Pain
Consider PT if you experience:
- Persistent muscle tightness that does not resolve with rest
- Frequent headaches or jaw pain
- Painful knots that limit daily or athletic activities
- Muscle stiffness after sitting, standing, or exercise
- Recurring pain in predictable areas
- Discomfort that worsens during stress or overuse
Early intervention leads to faster relief and prevents chronic pain cycles.
Find Relief From Myofascial Pain at Core Performance Physical Therapy
Myofascial Pain Syndrome can be frustrating and debilitating, but it is highly treatable with the right approach. Through manual therapy, corrective strengthening, and personalized movement strategies, physical therapy helps break the pain cycle and restore healthy muscle function.
If you’re experiencing chronic muscle tightness or trigger point pain, our team at Core Performance Physical Therapy is here to help.
Schedule an evaluation today to start your path toward lasting relief.
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