Myofascial Pain Syndrome

Myofascial Pain Syndrome Treatment Starts Here

Myofascial pain syndrome is pain that comes from irritated muscles and the connective tissue around them (fascia). It often involves tender “knots” or trigger points that can refer pain to other areas—such as the neck, shoulders, upper back, or low back. At Mountain View Pain Center, we help identify what’s driving your symptoms and build a plan to reduce pain, restore mobility, and improve function.

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Common Symptoms of Myofascial Pain Syndrome

  • Deep, aching muscle pain

  • Tender trigger points or “knots”

  • Referred pain (pain felt in a different area than the trigger point)

  • Muscle tightness and reduced range of motion

  • Pain that worsens with stress, poor sleep, or prolonged posture

  • Headaches related to neck/shoulder tension

  • Jaw or facial tension

  • Fatigue or a heavy feeling in affected muscles

  • Pain with repetitive activity or prolonged sitting/standing

Common Causes and Risk Factors

  • Repetitive strain or overuse

  • Prolonged sitting, screen time, or poor ergonomics

  • Muscle imbalances and weakness leading to compensation

  • Old injuries that changed movement patterns (whiplash, shoulder injuries, back flare-ups)

  • Reduced activity or deconditioning

  • Stress and poor sleep (can amplify muscle tension and pain sensitivity)

  • Limited mobility in the neck, shoulders, hips, or upper back

  • High training load or sudden increase in activity

When to Seek Urgent Care
Seek urgent evaluation if you have severe unrelenting pain after trauma, fever/chills, unexplained weight loss, new or worsening weakness, loss of bowel/bladder control, or rapidly worsening numbness/tingling.

How We Evaluate Myofascial Pain Syndrome

Myofascial pain can overlap with joint or nerve issues, so we start by clarifying your symptom pattern and triggers. Your visit may include movement testing, posture assessment, and evaluation of muscle tenderness and trigger point patterns. We also assess surrounding joints and mechanics (neck, upper back, shoulders, hips) that can contribute to repeated muscle strain. If symptoms include radiating pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness, we may also perform a basic neurologic screen. We also check for red flags to determine whether imaging or referral is appropriate.

How We Treat Myofascial Pain Syndrome

At Mountain View Pain Center, our multidisciplinary team combines evidence-based care to reduce muscle irritation and improve movement:

Mountain View Pain Center Pain Management for Myofascial Pain Syndrome

Pain Management

Targeted treatments when appropriate if symptoms overlap with joint or nerve irritation, or if trigger point injections are clinically indicated.

Mountain View Pain Center Physical Therapy for Myofascial Pain Syndrome

Physical Therapy

Movement-based care to restore neck and upper back mobility, improve strength and stability, and reduce headache/tension patterns.

Mountain View Pain Center Chiropractic Care for Myofascial Pain Syndrome

Chiropractic Care

Hands-on care to support joint mobility and reduce muscle tension, tailored to your symptoms and comfort.

Mountain View Pain Center Acupuncture for Myofascial Pain Syndrome

Acupuncture

A natural option to support pain relief and relaxation—often helpful for muscle tension patterns and stress-related flare-ups.

Treatments We Commonly Recommend

  • Trigger point-focused soft tissue work and mobility strategies

  • Strengthening for posture and endurance (upper back, core, glutes)

  • Movement retraining for desk work, lifting, and daily habits

  • Dry needling

  • Cupping

  • Stress/sleep habit support and flare-up planning

  • Home program to reduce recurrence and improve consistency

Home Care & Quick Relief

  • Ice for 10–15 minutes at a time during flare-ups

  • Gentle movement and posture breaks (avoid holding one position too long)

  • Light stretching and mobility as tolerated

  • Gradual strengthening for the areas that fatigue easily

  • Improve sleep consistency when possible (poor sleep often worsens flare-ups)

Myofascial Pain Syndrome FAQs

  • Trigger points are tender, irritated spots in muscle that can cause local pain and referred pain to other areas.

  • Not always. Myofascial pain comes from muscles and fascia, while nerve irritation more commonly causes radiating numbness/tingling. Symptoms can overlap, which is why evaluation matters.

  • Yes. Stress and poor sleep can increase muscle tension and make pain sensitivity worse during flare-ups.

  • Many people improve with coordinated care that restores mobility, strengthens support muscles, and retrains daily movement—often combining PT, chiropractic care, acupuncture, and targeted pain management options when appropriate.

  • For some patients, dry needling can help reduce trigger point sensitivity and improve mobility. We’ll recommend options based on your needs and comfort.

  • Often, no. Some insurance plans require a referral or authorization—if you’re unsure, we can help verify.

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