Myofascial Pain Syndrome: What You Need to Know

If you’ve ever had persistent muscle pain that just won’t go away, you may have heard the term myofascial pain syndrome (MPS). It’s more than just a sore muscle after a workout. MPS is a chronic condition where tight, sensitive knots in the muscle, called myofascial trigger points, cause pain, stiffness, and even referred pain in other areas of the body.

A new review published in Muscle & Nerve (Steen et al., 2025) has pulled together the latest evidence on how myofascial pain syndrome develops, how it is diagnosed, and which treatments help. At Health First Chiropractic in Modbury North, we regularly see patients with symptoms of myofascial pain and work with them to reduce pain, improve movement and support long-term management.

What is myofascial pain syndrome?

MPS is a musculoskeletal condition where certain muscles develop tight, tender spots known as trigger points. These can either:

• Cause constant, nagging pain (active trigger points), or
• Hurt only when pressed or irritated (latent trigger points).

Unlike general muscle soreness, MPS often lingers, restricts movement, and can mimic other conditions like arthritis, nerve pain, or fibromyalgia.

How common is myofascial pain syndrome?

Research shows MPS is one of the most common causes of ongoing muscle and joint pain. Estimates suggest:

• Up to 65% of women and 37% of men aged 30–60 may experience it
• As many as 85% of older adults are affected
• People with jobs involving repetitive strain, for example sewing machine operators or office workers at a desk all day, are particularly at risk

What makes myofascial pain more likely?

MPS can affect anyone, but certain factors make it more likely:

• Physical strain: Repetitive work, poor posture, or sudden injury
• Medical factors: Vitamin D deficiency, thyroid problems, or iron deficiency
• Stress and tension: Chronic stress and anxiety can increase muscle tightness
• Lifestyle habits: Sedentary behaviour, poor sleep, and jaw clenching (bruxism)

How is myofascial pain syndrome diagnosed?

Diagnosing MPS isn’t always straightforward because its symptoms overlap with other conditions. Classic signs include:

• Localised pain and tenderness
• Taut muscle bands that feel tight or rope-like
• Pain that spreads in a predictable pattern when pressed
• Restricted range of motion

Because these symptoms can mimic arthritis, neuropathy, or fibromyalgia, a skilled assessment is important.

What treatments help myofascial pain?

The review found some evidence for several hands-on and active treatments, and many people do best with a combination:

• Manual therapy and chiropractic care: hands-on techniques to improve mobility and release tension
• Dry needling and acupuncture: targeting trigger points to reduce sensitivity
• Stretching and exercise programs: restoring flexibility and building resilience
• Lifestyle advice: improving posture, sleep and movement habits

At Health First Chiropractic in Modbury North, we combine hands-on treatment with practical advice and, where it suits you, targeted exercises. Our focus is not only on relieving your discomfort but also on helping you understand what’s happening in your body and how to manage it over time.

Can myofascial pain be managed long term?

Myofascial pain can be frustrating, especially if you’ve had pain for months or years. The good news is that with the right diagnosis and care, many people manage it well and get back to the things they enjoy.

Whether your pain stems from long hours at a desk, heavy physical work, or simply ongoing tension, our chiropractors can help you get moving again with less pain and more confidence.

References

1. Steen JP, Jaiswal KS, Kumbhare D. Myofascial pain syndrome: an update on clinical characteristics, etiopathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment. Muscle & Nerve, 2025;71:889-910.

Written by

Dr Naomi Swan

Chiropractor and co-director of Health First Chiropractic in Modbury North, with over 20 years in practice and a Master of Chiropractic. Naomi is also a supervisor and examiner at the Australian Chiropractic College in Adelaide.

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