Just What Is Myofascial Pain?

Throughout our bodies is fascia, the web-like network of tissues that connect our muscles, organs, and bones, holding them together. A specific type of fascia is myofascia, the fascial tissue connecting the muscle fibers.

Myofascial pain is common but often misunderstood and misdiagnosed. In this article, we go in-depth and explain what myofascial pain is and what causes it. We also discuss non-medical ways to treat it.

What Causes Myofascial Pain?

Myofascial pain develops in the muscles as spasms, tenderness, and discomfort. The cause of myofascial pain can sometimes be traced back to a previous injury and poor sleeping patterns. Even long-term stress can be at fault.

Unfortunately, it is difficult for many patients to explain the nature or source of this pain. Because there is no observable explanation, some medical professionals tell these suffering patients that the pain is just in their heads. This can cause the patient extreme frustration and even lead to depression in those who live with this “mysterious” pain for several years.

Myofascial Symptoms and Signs

Despite how mysterious this pain might be, there are some common patterns to myofascial pain:

• Localized muscle pain. The pain is often located in certain areas, including the neck and lower or upper back. Interestingly enough, one side of the body tends to be more affected than the other.
• Spasms and tenderness. This does not always occur in the areas with pain.
• Poor sleep patterns. A person with myofascial may wake up feeling unrested and experience fatigue and body stiffness during the day.

Non-medical Myofascial Pain Therapies in Cincinnati

At Blatman Health and Wellness Center, we understand that myofascial pain is genuine. We provide compassionate care and guidance on alternatives to drugs and invasive procedures. Here are some natural ways to alleviate your pain:

Release Therapy

Release therapy leverages endorphins, your body’s natural painkillers.  This therapy involves gentle pressure on specific body parts to relax your muscles and release the endorphins.

During therapy, you may start by lifting your legs and holding them up for a few minutes to relieve some of the pain or seizing. You can repeat this process with the neck and shoulders. After lifting, pressure may be applied to those areas.

Healthy Amounts of Sleep

As you may know, sleep plays a vital role in overall health, even though many of us sometimes fall short of the right amount. With enough sleep, the body can withstand pain and have more energy. Adequate sleep also helps muscles to relax and rejuvenate at the end of the day, providing more natural forms of healing.

Exercise

Maintaining an active lifestyle and minimizing sedentary behavior can go far in managing pain. The key is not to overdo your exercises, as this may worsen any muscle-related condition you are coping with.

Low-impact exercises, like light stretching and cardiovascular activity, can gently stretch your muscles and improve your posture. Stretching also relaxes the tight muscles and increases blood flow, easing pain. Swimming is another low-impact exercise that releases endorphins.

Diet & Lifestyle

A healthy diet is the most important tool to facilitate proper body healing and function. It also contributes to your overall well-being. Make sure you eat a healthy, balanced diet with all the required nutrients. In addition to a robust intake of healthy foods, avoiding stress and practicing relaxation may also help improve your symptoms.

Adequate sleep, a good diet, and healthy activity can help you manage myofascial pain. When caring for your body as you should, you may be able to alleviate your discomfort without having to turn to medications or medical procedures. For help from a local practitioner who can help heal your myofascial pain naturally, contact our Cincinnati-based office today.