Myofascial Low Back Pain

Objective: This review article describes the etiology, pathogenesis, clinical characters and management of low back pain (LBP) caused by myofascial trigger points (MTrPs), i.e. myofascial low back pain. Findings: Based on the currently available knowledge and our clinical experience, we analyzed the basic and clinical aspects of myofascial LBP. Most cases of myofascial LBP are related to injuries, either current or previous. Active MTrPs that cause LBP are usually activated as a consequence of other etiological lesions. Therefore, it is important to determine and treat the underlying pathological lesions in order to avoid recurrence of myofascial LBP. If the underlying pathological lesion is unable to be identified and the pain in MTrPs is very severe, we may still have to suppress the active MTrP for pain control. To inactivate MTrPs, effective approaches include manual therapy, physical therapy modalities, and needling including acupuncture and MTrP injection. Conclusion: It is important to find out the underlying etiological lesion, which causes LBP, and to provide appropriate management based on our best knowledge. ( Tw J Phys Med Rehabil 2008; 36(1): 1 14 )