Physiotherapy and massage are common initial recommendations for the treatment of Myofascial Pain Syndrome. A trigger point release technique is often used. This involves applying pressure to the trigger point and then gradually increasing that pressure until the trigger point releases. This can only provide relief in the short term, but it can then enable the treatment provider to take advantage of the temporary respite in the pain to work with the patient on Myofascial Pain Syndrome stretching exercises. These can help to strengthen the muscles for long term benefit.
If less invasive therapy is unsuccessful, trigger point injections may be considered. A trigger point injection is an injection of local anaesthetic and steroid into the painful ‘knot’. Pain relief may become apparent within a few hours. This is the effect of the local anaesthetic. The steroid itself may take a couple of weeks to start having an effect and can help provide relief for two or three months. As with the trigger point release, this respite in the pain can provide a window of opportunity for the physical therapist to work on muscle strengthening.
Some sufferers find benefit in more alternative forms of therapy, such as relaxation techniques, the Feldenkrais Method or the Bowen Technique.