Muscle spasms are a common condition causing pain that is typically short-lived; however, muscle spasms may become frequent and chronic necessitating treatment. The chronic condition is known as myofascial pain syndrome, and is a chronic pain disorder. It affects the muscles and the connective tissue (called the “fascia”) that surrounds them. With this syndrome, you may develop sensitive areas on your body called “trigger points.” When these places are pressed or stressed, you feel pain. This condition can affect muscles throughout your body. Your healthcare provider will work with you to diagnose and treat your sacroiliac joint pain.
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If you suffer from myofascial pain syndrome and would like additional information on this painful condition, please review the video and frequently asked questions below. If you are interested in or scheduled for a trigger point injection for your myofascial pain syndrome and would like additional information on this interventional procedure please refer to our article on trigger point injections. Additionally, if you have questions or concerns do not hesitate to discuss them with your physician.
Muscle Spasms / Myofascial Pain Syndrome FAQ
Muscle spasms are involuntary contractions of muscle(s) that are often very painful. Muscle spasms may be the result of a herniated disc, sciatica or pinched nerve, or inflammation or injury to the muscle.
To determine whether you are suffering from muscle spasms or from another condition, your provider will start with a comprehensive medical review and physical exam. Diagnostic tests that include x-rays, lab results, and/or MRIs will also be reviewed.
Muscle spasms may be treated in many ways including non-opioid adjuvant medications, trigger point injections, Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS), and complementary therapies such as acupuncture, massage therapy, chiropractic care, and physical therapy. Muscle spasms may be treated as part of a care team model involving pain psychology, pain management, and primary care specialties working together.
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