Myofascial pain syndrome is a common local or regional muscle disorder caused by myofascial trigger points (MTrP). A MTrP is a tight band of muscle fibers that sits within the muscle and is commonly referred to as a “knot” in a muscle. These MTrP’s can cause pain locally in the muscle. Sometimes they can also refer pain to other more distal parts of the body i.e. down the leg or arm. MTrP’s also inhibit normal muscle function as they increase the normal resting tension of the muscle unit. This may increase the risk of further injury to that muscle or to joints around it.

There are several methods used to deactivate MTrP’s, at Portobello Physiotherapy our Chartered Physiotherapists may use any of the following treatment techniques in isolation or in combination to address myofascial pain including: dry needling, acupuncture, myofascial release techniques, heat therapy and passive stretching exercises.