Chronic muscle pain, also known as myofascial pain syndrome, causes pain that is centered around sensitive areas of the muscle called "trigger points." This results in the spread of pain throughout the muscle. Common treatment for lasting muscle pain experienced in myofascial pain syndrome includes injections into these trigger points, physical therapy and over-the-counter or prescribed medications.
NSAIDs
NSAIDs, or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, are frequently used to reduce the amount of muscle pain experienced; many of these are available over the counter. These medications also lower fevers, lower the blood's ability to clot, and reduce inflammation, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Common generic NSAIDs include aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen and nabumetone. Another sub-type of NSAIDs is called cox-2 inhibitors. NSAIDs are often used as a first-line defense against muscle pain.
Tricyclic Antidepressants
According to the Mayo Clinic, tricyclic antidepressants may help alleviate muscle pain and help the patient to rest. This type of antidepressant works by inhibiting the re-uptake of the neurotransmitters serotonin and norepinephrine, as well as lesser amounts of dopamine. Your doctor may prescribe one of these medications in cases of more severe muscle pain: amitriptyline, amoxapine, desipramine, doxepin, imipramine, nortriptyline, protriptyline or trimipramine. Side effects of tricyclic antidepressants include constipation, dry mouth, dizziness, impaired sexual function and headache.
Cortisone Injections
For more severe muscle pain, your doctor may choose to inject cortisone into and around the trigger point or muscle where the pain is begin experienced. These shots include a corticosteroid in addition to an anesthetic medication. Corticosteroids, according to the Mayo Clinic, help to relieve pain and inflammation in one specific area of the body. When the doctor chooses to insert a needle into or around a trigger point without using corticosteroids, this method is referred to as "needling," which may help to relieve the tension experienced in that muscle.
