It seems like a straightforward proposition: an injury occurs, and pain follows, in the location where the trauma happened. But what about pain that refers or radiates to another, seemingly unrelated area of the body? Referred pain is a common issue that can be treated with chiropractic care.
What Is Myofascial Pain?
Myofascial pain syndrome is a chronic pain disorder that impacts the musculoskeletal system. Myofascial pain syndrome causes sensitive, knotted “trigger points” in muscles and fascial tissue, usually after an injury or from overuse. When pressure is applied to a trigger point, pain often refers or radiates to another body part. Other common symptoms are persistent, localized pain, or a tender muscle knot. Less common secondary symptoms may include stiffness, fatigue, headaches, or postural changes.
Are Myofascial Pain and Fibromyalgia Related?
Fibromyalgia and myofascial pain share some similarities, but they are separate conditions. Both involve nervous system sensitization, with musculoskeletal pain that may persist for several months or more.
Myofascial pain is highly localized with specific trigger points that can radiate to other areas, while fibromyalgia pain is widespread with areas that are tender to direct touch. Myofascial pain syndrome is caused by accidents, injuries, improper use or overuse of muscles, or spinal misalignment. Fibromyalgia’s origins are less well understood, but it has been linked to autoimmune, endocrine, and biochemical issues, as well as sleep disorders and stress.
How Do You Treat Myofascial Pain?
Traditional medicine typically treats myofascial pain with some combination of oral medications and injections. Chiropractors take a different approach, preferring non-pharmaceutical solutions that address the underlying issues. Our premier treatment is myofascial release, also known as trigger point therapy. We may also recommend other forms of chiropractic care like massage, adjustments, physical therapy, and lifestyle counseling to complement myofascial release treatment.
What Is a Myofascial Trigger Point Treatment?
Trigger point therapy involves the application of firm, deep pressure to trigger points, loosening the knots, and allowing blood flow to return to affected areas. You may experience some discomfort while pressure is being applied, and some soreness for a day or two afterward, but many patients have immediate relief and a reduction in pain levels. Full healing may take multiple sessions, with additional improvement occurring after each visit.
Trigger point therapy proves effective in alleviating a range of conditions, including sciatica, tennis elbow, and pains in the neck, lower back, chest wall, shoulders, knees, or ankles.
Trigger Point Therapy Can Help Treat Your Pain
If you’re experiencing musculoskeletal pain, trigger point therapy and other chiropractic treatments can address your pain without the use of medications that may cause side effects or lead to dependency. At Total Chiropractic Care and Wellness, we will help you manage pain from injury, overuse, or misalignment with a treatment plan designed especially for you. Schedule an appointment online or give our office a call at (631) 447-2299.