Myofascial pain syndrome is a chronic form of muscle pain, states MayoClinic.com. Pain associated with myofascial pain syndrome is centered around sensitive points in muscles called trigger points. Trigger points are sensitive to the touch and can spread pain throughout the affected muscle. Risk factors include muscle injury, inactivity, stress, anxiety, middle-age and female gender. Treatments for myofascial pain syndrome are generally conservative, including physical therapy, massage, and medications.
Trigger Point Injection
A trigger point injection is a common treatment for myofascial pain syndrome, states CNN.com. A trigger point injection involves a doctor inserting a needle into the trigger point that has formed in the muscle. Then, the doctor injects an anesthetic medication into one or more parts of the affected muscle. This process may result in immediate relief of myofascial pain. In more severe cases, the doctor will inject a corticosteroid into the trigger point to provide more long-term relief. Risks of a trigger point injection include infection, excessive bleeding, muscle damage or nerve damage. A patient should let his doctor know if he is experiencing excessive pain, redness, warmth or drainage from the injection site.
Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, commonly called NSAIDs, may be used to treat myofascial pain syndrome, states CNN.com. NSAIDS reduce chemical signals related to pain and inflammation. Specifically, in myofascial pain syndrome, NSAIDs may help relieve muscle pain. These medications are available over the counter and include brands such as Aleve and Motrin. These medications must be taken as directed to avoid serious side effects including stomach pain, vomiting blood, bloody stools, dark urine or clay-colored stools. Patients with stomach, liver, kidney or heart problems should not take NSAIDs to avoid serious complications.
Antidepressants
Antidepressants may help to relieve myofascial pain syndrome, according to MayoClinic.com. Specifically, a doctor may prescribe a tricyclic antidepressant medication to ease symptoms. Tricyclic antidepressant include drugs such as, Elavil. Serious side effects of this medication include irregular heartbeat, chest pain, numbness or weakness, headache, confusion, hallucinations, restless muscle movements, skin rash or easy bruising, states Drugs.com. A patient experiencing serious side effects should immediately stop taking the medications and seek immediate medical treatment.
