Weekdays 9:30am - 7pm.
Alternate Saturdays 9am - 5pm.
Red orchid flowers in a vase with the text Amaris B. Clinic on a white wall in the background.
Getting Here
By Car/Taxi

Public parking available or drop off along Arab Street, Village Hotel Bugis (Previously known as Golden Landmark Hotel)

By Public Transport

Buses (2, 12, 32, 33, 130, 133, 133A, 520, 960, NR7)  MRT (alight at Bugis MRT station)

Follow us
Red orchid flowers in a vase with the text Amaris B. Clinic on a white wall in the background.
Getting Here
Follow us

Get In Touch

Myofascial pain: When the pain isn't on the spot you thought 

Jul 4, 2024
June 12, 2025
Reviewed by:
Dr Ivan Puah, Medical Director

Knowing your myofascial pain point is crucial for identifying trigger points, relieving pain, and, most importantly, treating the condition.

myofascial pain

Table of Contents

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.

Do you know that many people have mistaken soft tissue pain for arthritis? The reason is that the tissues' pain, swelling, and/or inflammation occur near the joints. 

This is why spotting your myofascial pain point is crucial in identifying trigger points, relieving pain, and treating the correct muscle group. 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.

Other causes of myofascial pain/soft tissue pain include:

  • Injury to muscle fibres
  • Lack of activity, such as a sedentary lifestyle or immobility of limbs
  • Repetitive motions such as mouse-clicking

What are the symptoms of myofascial pain/soft tissue pain?

Pain caused by muscle tissue or muscle fascia is termed myofascial pain syndrome. Its symptoms may develop slowly, causing inflammation and pain.

The symptoms include:

  • deep and constant aching in the muscles
  • muscle tightness
  • numbness in any body part
  • recurrent tingling, prickling or 'pins and needles' sensation.
  • reduced joint mobility
  • pain in movement
  • possible discolouration or bruising
  • sore spots in the muscle
  • stiff joints

How is myofascial pain diagnosed?

Myofascial pain is diagnosed by identifying the two kinds of trigger points: active trigger points and latent trigger points. An active trigger point is where the pain or tenderness within the skeletal muscle is located. A latent trigger point causes muscle weakness or movement restriction, which can act and feel like a trigger point.

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. 

Dry needling

Dry needling can benefit those experiencing soreness, tightness, and stiffness. These symptoms are typically caused by muscle trigger points 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. 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. 

Reference

read other blogposts

Female pattern hair loss

44.4% of women in Singapore aged 15 to 64 reported ranking hair loss as their top hair concern, surpassing concerns about hair damage or dryness

November 24, 2025
Male chest contouring

Discover effective chest contouring and sculpting solutions for men to reduce chest fat and enlarged glands to achieve a more defined, masculine chest.

November 24, 2025
vaser liposuction

While gyms and fitness studios somehow encourage us to keep up with the routines, there’s one slight problem with them: they aren’t actually true.

November 22, 2025
gynecomastia

As gynecomastia cannot be hidden under clothing, it brings about psychological distress to the individual affected by it, affecting their quality of life.

November 22, 2025
weight loss vs fat loss

The terms ‘fat loss’ and ‘weight loss’ & often used interchangeably, and it is understandable in some cases. Here are some solutions you might want to consider.

November 22, 2025
armpit fat removal

Are your sleeveless tops just piling up at the back of your closet after not being worn for a long while? Sometimes our insecurities get the better of us.

November 22, 2025