Treatment of Myofascial Pain Syndrome

Treatment of Myofascial Pain Syndrome

Treatment of myofascial pain syndrome involves medication, trigger point injections and physical therapy.

Treatment of myofascial pain syndrome includes the following-

• Identification and treatment of risk factors: Risk factors for myofascial pain syndrome should be identified and treated.
• Medications: Various medications are used to restore the normal functioning of the muscle. Painkillers such as NSAIDS are used to treat the pain. Muscle relaxants relax the contracted muscle. Antidepressants may also be added to the prescription based on the symptoms.

Dry needling (where no medication is injected) and trigger point injections using medications like 3% promethazine hydrochloride, 0.5% procaine or 1% plain lignocaine are effective to treat myofascial pain syndrome. Local painkiller ointments, sprays and ointments can also be used for relief from the pain.

In the spray and stretch technique, the affected muscle is stretched followed by spraying of a coolant like ethylchloride.

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• Other treatments: Other treatments include massage, stretching, heat therapy and ultrasound, which may be useful in these patients.
• Lifestyle Changes: Lifestyle changes like adequate physical activity, good posture, regular and healthy balanced diet, adequate rest and proper sleep timings could help to prevent such a condition from occurring.