Myofascial Pain Syndrome (MPS) is a painful condition which may be due to trigger point activation, either by direct causes or as a reactive mechanism to other dysfunctions. The patient is often wakened from sleep due to pain. Tension headaches are a common symptom. Inhibition of antagonist muscle by over active tight agonist leads to fatigue, weakness and deconditioned muscles. MPS responds well to our therapies.
Myofascial pain syndrome (MPS) in the cervical and upper back regions is a common medical problem. The involved muscles include trapezius, multifidi, splenius cervicis, levator scapulae, supraspinatus or infraspinatus.
Acupuncture is a well-known method for relief of chronic pain.
In this 2002 study, twenty-nine patients with chronic MPS in the upper back and cervical regions received acupuncture 2 times per week for 3 weeks. The study evaluated the intensity of pain by visual analog scales (VAS) and active range of motion (ROM) of neck before and after therapy. After receiving acupuncture for 3 weeks, VAS of pain fell significantly from 9.0+/-1.0 to 4.9+/-2.5 and active ROM of neck significantly increased from 35.8+/-10.2 degrees to 61.3+/-9.4 degrees (p<0.05). The onset of symptom relief was gradual and duration of symptom relief after a course of acupuncture was average 5.3+/-1.2 days. In conclusion, acupuncture can be an effective method for pain relief of patients with chronic MPS in the cervical and upper back regions.
With our experience, we will see what therapies and time frames for evaluation are appropriate for you.