Myofascial Trigger Point: Symptoms, Diagnosis, Intervention

It is acknowledged in medicine that being physically active has overall positive health benefits by reducing the risk of chronic health problems such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, some forms of cancer, osteoporosis, obesity, falls and fractures, and some mental health problems (Brukner & Brown, 2005; Owen et al., 2007). However, some of us take it to the extreme in sports, whilst others need to be persuaded to be active on urgent medical advice. Even so, regardless of our level of activity or occupation, most of us would have experienced musculoskeletal (MSK) pain at one point or another. It is estimated that between 13.5 and 47% of the general population have MSK pain (Cimmino & Ferrone, 2011; Fleckenstein et al., 2010). The threat of MSK pain can prevent us from enjoying daily physical activities. With significant implications for public health and wellbeing, MSK injury prevention, diagnosis, intervention, rehabilitation occupies an important space in the general population and contemporary sports medicine.