Condition · Whole Body
Myofascial Pain Syndrome
How Myofascial Release addresses it, and what to expect.
Myofascial Pain Syndrome (MPS) is a chronic pain disorder characterized by the presence of trigger points—sensitive areas of tight muscle fibers or knots that can cause localized or referred pain. These trigger points are thought to result from muscle overuse, trauma, or stress, leading to the development of tight bands of muscle fibers. Common areas where trigger points may develop include the neck, shoulders, upper and lower back, and the pelvic region. Key features of Myofascial Pain Syndrome include trigger points, referred pain, muscle stiffness and tenderness, and chronic pain.
Why fascia is involved
Trigger points are fascia and muscle bound together.
A trigger point is a taut band where muscle fibers and the fascia around them have become stuck in a contracted state, usually after overuse, injury, poor posture or sustained stress. Trigger points are tender to the touch and refer pain to other areas, which is why a knot in the shoulder can cause a headache or a band in the hip can hurt the knee. Because fascia is continuous, trigger points tend to form in chains.
Myofascial Release is named for this tissue. Rather than digging into individual knots, therapists apply sustained, gentle pressure to the restricted fascia so the whole band can release and the referred pain pattern can resolve. Many people who have had trigger points treated repeatedly find lasting relief once the surrounding fascia is addressed.
MFR Resource
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Every therapist in the Directory is trained in the John F. Barnes Myofascial Release Approach®.