A new insight into the management of myofascial pain syndrome

Myofascial pain syndrome (MPS) is a musculoskeletal disorder which is characterized by pain, muscle spasms, and muscle tenderness, as well as a limited range of motion, weakness, and rarely, autonomous dysfunction. Management includes exercise programs in particular, and many other invasive and non-invasive therapies, depending on the clinical status of the patient. The main options include medical therapies with analgesics, myorelaxants and antidepressants, hot pack therapy, exercise, stretch and spray therapy, ischemic compression, therapeutic massage, biofeedback, transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), ultrasound (US), interferential (IFA) current, low-energy light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation (LASER), extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT), trigger point injections, dry needling, and acupuncture. There is growing evidence that trigger point injections and dry needling, as well as stretching exercises, are effective alternatives in the management of MPS. Management success is primarily based on the cooperation of the patient and the treating physician and the elimination of predisposing factors.