Myofascial Pain Syndrome / Fibromyalgia

 

Fibromyalgia, Sleep Deprivation, Trigger Points

Muscles are covered by the fascia, a tough membrane.  Due to a variety of factors including specific sleep disorders, or sleep deprivation, muscle strain, inactivity, muscle injury, inflammation, decreased blood flow, viral infections, immune system dysfunction, etc. the fascia and the muscle may develop a very painful, complex condition, called fibromyalgia, myofascial pain syndrome, or trigger point disease (trigger points).  The condition may result in a specific radiating pain pattern. It can also cause muscle spasm, limitation of range of motion and mimic other severe body symptoms.

 

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Epstein Barr Virus Infection -The Fibromyalgia Connection

Textbooks describe a wide variety of so-called trigger points in many muscles of the body, however the most frequent trigger points are located in the torso muscles such as the rhomboid, trapesius and infraspinatus muscles.  Some authors believe that fibromyalgia, a chronic pain syndrome that usually is coupled with chronic "fatigue syndrome" is a severe, generalized, systemic form of myofascial pain syndrome.  In the etiology of this generalized form, viral infection or immune system abnormality may play a role, since it frequently coexists with, or follows either Epstein Barr, or other viral infections.

As previously mentioned, depending on the location, trigger points may mimic severe body conditions, even a heart attack, or vegetative symptoms, such as sweating, nausea, or dizziness and headaches, etc. Frequently, diagnosing myofascial pain syndrome is a difficult and challenging task, requiring specific and thorough knowledge and experience.  Sometimes a thorough diagnostic work up, including laboratory tests may be necessary.

 

Treatment, Physical Therapy, Vitamin Supplements, Exercise Regimens, Medical Research

A variety of treatments have been described.  Adequate sleep, rest, physical therapy, injections, medications, vitamins, diet, judicious exercises may contribute to relief of the symptoms.  Nonetheless, frequently the condition may defy all medical efforts and treatments.  Of the physical therapy methods, ultrasound, electrical stimulation, massage and myofascial release may be helpful.

Based on years of experience, observations and medical research we utilize a specific combination therapy protocol to treat fibromyalgia. Our results are promising. Our patients report significant, sometimes dramatic improvement.

If you are suffering of fibromyalgia, or chronic fatigue syndrome do not hesitate. We may be able to help.

Call New York Midtown Orthopedics for an appointment !

 

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