What is Myofascial Pain Syndrome?
Myofascial pain syndromeis a term used to describe painful conditions that occur in the muscles and the membrane tissues surrounding them. Specifically, this syndrome gripes It causes trigger points, known as trigger points. Trigger points are hard, painful points in muscle fibers that produce a characteristic pain sensation when pressure is applied to these points. They are usually seen in the neck, back and waist areas. Patients report that these pains are limited to certain areas and tend to spread to neighboring areas.
Symptoms of Myofascial Pain Syndrome
The symptoms of myofascial pain syndrome are quite diverse. These symptoms include:
- Local pain: A feeling of pain when pressure is applied to trigger points.
- Radiation of pain: Pain radiating from the neck area to the shoulders and head.
- Limitation of movement: Difficulty or restriction of certain movements.
- Muscle tension: Muscles feeling tense and hard.
In addition, patients sometimes sleep disorder, stress and may also apply due to other illnesses.
Causes of Myofascial Pain Syndrome
Many factors play a role in the development of myofascial pain syndrome. Some of these include:
- Postural disorders: Situations such as prolonged sitting, working on the computer, and using the phone can cause posture disorders and cause trigger points to form.
- Traumas: Physical trauma such as falling, hitting, or sudden muscle strain can also trigger the formation of trigger points.
- Stress and sleep disorders: Stress causes muscle tension, which increases the risk of trigger points, and sleep disorders make this situation worse.
- Microtraumas: Repetitive movements or activities that strain muscles can lead to the formation of trigger points.
Diagnostic Process
Diagnosis of myofascial pain syndrome begins with the identification of trigger points. During this process, the doctor listens to the patient's complaints and examines them. The occurrence of pain when pressure is applied to trigger points and the spread of this pain to neighboring tissues are important findings in establishing the diagnosis. In addition, jump sign Muscle twitching, also known as twitching, is a symptom that supports the diagnosis.
Treatment Methods
In the treatment of myofascial pain syndrome combined treatment methods are preferred. Among these treatment methods:
- Painkillers and muscle relaxants: It is used short-term to relieve pain.
- Trigger point injection: By applying local anesthesia to trigger points, both mechanical stimulation is provided and pain is relieved.
- Dry needling method: Application with thin needles increases the blood flow to trigger points.
- Physiotheraphy: Muscle relaxation is achieved by using methods such as ultrasound, TECAR, and laser treatments.
- Shock wave therapy: This method, used in resistant cases, aims to reduce pain.
The Importance of Exercises
One of the most important components of treatment are exercises. Stretching, strengthening and posture exercises play a critical role in the treatment process of patients. However, it is very important that these exercises are performed with the right techniques and under the supervision of a specialist. Incorrect exercises can cause trigger points. Regular application of exercise programs by patients helps reduce pain and achieve permanent recovery.
Treatment Process
Patients are quickly taken into treatment after the examination. Depending on the severity of the pain, painkillers and injection treatments are applied simultaneously with physical therapy methods. Physical therapy processes are arranged according to the patient's condition and long-term follow-ups are carried out. It is recommended that patients continue their exercise programs even after the end of treatment. In this way, the development of trigger points again is prevented.
Myofascial pain syndrome is a condition that can be managed with proper diagnosis and treatment. It is very important to get professional support to improve the quality of life of patients.
