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Myofascial pain syndrome can cause referred pain, often mistaken for arthritis due to joint pain and swelling. Identifying myofascial pain points is crucial for treating chronic pain, which can result from muscle injuries, inactivity, or repetitive motions.
Symptoms include deep muscle aching, tightness, numbness, reduced joint mobility, and stiffness. Diagnosis includes identifying active (painful) and latent (weakness or restriction) trigger points.
Treatment options in Singapore involve myotherapy for pain relief, dry needling for soreness, and waves and vibrations therapy to promote healing. Consulting healthcare professionals for personalised advice is essential.
There are cases where pain is not the source of myofascial pain syndrome.
This is known as referred pain, and the actual location of the myofascial pain generator may cause pain in other areas [1].
Do you know that many people have mistaken soft tissue pain for arthritis [2]?
The reason is that the tissues' pain, swelling, and/or inflammation occur near the joints.
This is why identifying your myofascial pain point is crucial for pinpointing trigger points, relieving pain, and treating the correct muscle group [3].
This can alleviate and, most importantly, treat chronic pain.
What causes myofascial pain/soft tissue pain?
Myofascial pain may develop from a muscle injury or strain on a specific muscle, muscle group, ligament or tendon [4].
Other causes of myofascial pain/soft tissue pain include:
- Injury to muscle fibres [5]
- Lack of activity, such as a sedentary lifestyle or immobility of limbs [6]
- Repetitive motions such as mouse-clicking [7]
What are the symptoms of myofascial pain/soft tissue pain?
Pain arising from muscle tissue or fascia is termed myofascial pain syndrome [8].
Its symptoms may develop slowly, causing inflammation and pain.
The symptoms include [9]:
- deep and constant aching in the muscles [9, 10]
- muscle tightness [11]
- numbness in any body part [11]
- recurrent tingling, prickling or 'pins and needles' sensation [11]
- reduced joint mobility [7]
- pain in movement [12]
- possible discolouration or bruising [10]
- sore spots in the muscle [13]
- stiff joints [14]
How is myofascial pain diagnosed?
Myofascial pain is diagnosed by identifying the two kinds of trigger points: active trigger points and latent trigger points [15].
An active trigger point is the site of pain or tenderness within a skeletal muscle [16].
A latent trigger point causes muscle weakness or movement restriction, which can act and feel like a trigger point [17].
Different Types of Pain Relief and Management Solutions in Singapore
Myotherapy (Muscle Therapy)
Myotherapy (muscle therapy) is a form of physical therapy that is used to manage and relieve acute and chronic muscular pain, minor sports injuries, repetitive strain injuries, and muscular (myofascial) pain.
It is also a useful therapy for those who suffer from stress-related issues, anxiety, and insomnia (sleep disorder) and, in general, promotes well-being for the individual [18].
Dry needling
Dry needling can benefit those experiencing soreness, tightness, and stiffness [19].
Muscle trigger points typically cause these symptoms due to wear and tear.
It can effectively address the discomfort associated with these issues.
Waves and vibrations therapy
Waves and Vibrations Therapy uses ultrasound and electrotherapy to accelerate healing, reduce tissue swelling and pain, and decrease muscle tightness [20].
It can hasten the healing process and improve the strength of soft tissue.
This therapy will also enhance blood flow to the affected area in chronic injuries, initiating healing and reducing pain.
Disclaimer: The information provided herein is intended solely for educational purposes, to share the various treatments available in Singapore for pain relief management. This article is not intended to serve as medical advice or consultation. The content is not a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, advice, or treatment. Individuals should seek the advice of their physician or other qualified health providers with any questions they may have regarding a medical condition. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read in the article.
