Myofascial Pain Syndrome (MPS) and Fibromyalgia

Many of those already suffering from the pain of fibromyalgia also suffer from myofascial pain syndrome. Myofascial pain syndrome is another form of chronic pain that can affect the entire body, particularly the face and jaw. Myofascial pain can add to the already annoying symptoms of fibromyalgia, and can contribute to disability and a poor quality of life if not diagnosed properly. If you think that you may be suffering from myofascial dysfunction, visit with your health care provider to discuss your treatment options.

Myofascia and Chronic Pain

Chronic myofascial pain (CMP) is a musculoskeletal chronic pain syndrome that is nonprogressive, nondegenerative, and noninflammatory. It is characterized by pain and stiffness that is restricted to certain locations on the body. Like fibromyalgia, chronic myofascial pain is not a psychological disturbance, and neither condition is a mental illness, although chronic pain can cause anxiety and lead to depression.1-7 The American Medical Association, the World Health Organization, and the National Institutes of Health are among those who have accepted these as legitimate physical illnesses and major causes of disability.1