Myofascial Pain Syndrome Common Among Neck Pain Sufferers

Myofascial pain syndrome (MPS) is a regional pain syndrome described as myofascial trigger points in skeletal muscle that can refer pain to nearby regions. A recent study discovered the presence of MPS in a group 224 patients with chronic non-specific neck pain. The investigators found the most common location for myofascial trigger points among participants was in the trapezius muscles, followed by the levator scapulae, multifidii, and splenius cervicis muscles in the neck region. Based on the findings, MPS should be considered a common source of pain among individuals presenting chronic non-specific neck pain. Chiropractic care includes myofascial release techniques of many varieties in addition to spinal manipulation and other modalities that reduce the pain and disability associated with MPS. Pain Medicine, December 2016