Myofascial Pain Syndrome: The Keys to Managing Your Pain

March 11, 2025
OrthoNJ

If you’re dealing with persistent muscle pain, you might be suffering from Myofascial Pain Syndrome (MPS), a condition marked by muscle pain, stiffness, and tenderness caused by trigger points—tight knots in the muscle fibers that can produce local pain or refer discomfort to other areas of the body, known as deferred pain. If you're experiencing these symptoms, you're not alone. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Many people are impacted by MPS and it can significantly interfere with daily life, where even simple tasks become challenging. The good news is that you don’t have to suffer in silence. Seeking help from the right specialists, such as an orthopedic doctor or physiatrist, can make a huge difference in managing and even eliminating the pain.

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What is Myofascial Pain Syndrome?

Myofascial Pain Syndrome is a condition where muscle pain is caused by trigger points, localized areas of muscle fibers that become tight and tender, causing pain. Sometimes, the pain is felt directly at the site of the trigger point, but often, the pain is felt in another part of the body. For example, a trigger point in the neck might cause pain or discomfort in the shoulder or even the hand.

The key symptoms of Myofascial Pain Syndrome include:

  • Persistent muscle pain that feels deep and aching.
  • Muscle stiffness and tightness.
  • Trigger points (knots) that are tender to the touch.
  • Limited range of motion due to pain.
  • Referred pain, where the pain is felt in areas beyond the site of the trigger point.

There are various factors that can cause MPS, including muscle overuse, poor posture, stress, or trauma. Whether you’re an athlete or someone with a sedentary lifestyle, MPS can develop, leaving you in pain and frustration, especially in athletes or someone with a sedentary lifestyle.

Why See an Orthopedic Specialist or Physiatrist ?

While over-the-counter pain medications may offer temporary relief, effectively managing Myofascial Pain Syndrome often requires professional care. Two types of specialists are particularly well-suited to help with MPS: orthopedic doctors and physiatrists. Here’s how they can help:

Orthopedic Doctor for Myofascial Pain Syndrome

Orthopedic doctors specialize in diagnosing, treating, and preventing musculoskeletal conditions—including muscle pain like MPS. They are experts in understanding how muscles, bones, tendons, and ligaments work together and how pain in one part of the body can affect the rest.

You can expect a comprehensive evaluation when you see an orthopedic doctor for MPS. They will:

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  1. Assess your medical history and review any past injuries or physical activities that could have contributed to the development of MPS.
  2. Conduct a physical exam to pinpoint areas of muscle tightness and identify the trigger points causing your pain.
  3. Rule out other conditions by ordering imaging tests (like X-rays or MRIs) to ensure no underlying joint issues or other problems that might be causing the pain.

Once an orthopedic specialist has confirmed that your pain is due to MPS, they will create a personalized treatment plan for you. This could include:

  • Physical therapy to help stretch and strengthen the muscles involved.
  • Trigger point injections or other pain-relieving procedures to directly treat the knots causing pain.
  • Medication to relieve pain, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or muscle relaxants.

Physiatrists for Myofascial Pain Syndrome

While orthopedic doctors are great at diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal conditions, physiatrists, or doctors specializing in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PM&R), focus on non-surgical treatments to improve function and quality of life. If MPS is affecting your ability to work, move, or enjoy life, a physiatrist can help you regain control.

Physiatrists approach pain from a holistic standpoint, emphasizing:

Non-invasive treatments target the muscles directly, without surgery.

Physical therapy techniques that are customized to your specific needs and pain points.

Injection therapies like dry needling or trigger point injections directly target the source of your pain.


Chronic pain management
, including lifestyle changes and stress-reduction techniques that can help you manage long-term pain.

Seeing a physiatrist is especially helpful if MPS is impacting your day-to-day activities. They will work with you to improve pain management and overall functionality and mobility, so you can move more freely and live with less discomfort.


You don't have to stay in pain. Contact one of our ONJ divisions to schedule an appointment.

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How an Orthopedic or Physiatrist Appointment Works

If you’re unsure whether to see an orthopedic doctor or a physiatrist, don’t worry—either specialist can help, and many people end up seeing both at different points in their treatment. Here’s what you can expect when you make that first appointment:

  1. Thorough evaluation: Your doctor will ask about your symptoms, medical history, and lifestyle. They may want to know how long you’ve had pain, where it’s located, and whether there are any specific activities that trigger it.
  2. Physical examination: Your doctor will physically examine you, looking for signs of muscle tightness, tenderness, and specific trigger points. They’ll also assess your posture, range of motion, and other factors contributing to your condition.
  3. Diagnostic tests: Depending on your symptoms, your doctor may recommend imaging tests like X-rays or MRIs. These tests can help rule out other issues like herniated discs or joint problems.
  4. Personalized treatment plan: Based on the diagnosis, you’ll be given a treatment plan designed to address your specific needs. This could include physical therapy, medication, injections, or lifestyle changes.
  5. Ongoing care: For chronic conditions like MPS, follow-up visits are often necessary to monitor progress and adjustyour treatment as needed. Your doctor may suggest regular physical therapy sessions or other interventions to keep the pain in check.

Managing MPS Long-Term

If you’re struggling with muscle pain, you don’t have to simply “live with it.” An orthopedic specialist or physiatrist can create a personalized plan to treat the root causes of your Myofascial Pain Syndrome. With expert care, you can manage pain, restore mobility, and get back to daily life. While there is no one-size-fits-all treatment for Myofascial Pain Syndrome, seeing an orthopedic doctor or physiatrist gives you the best chance of managing and alleviating the pain over time.


Don’t wait any longer to get the help you need. Schedule an appointment today with one of ONJ's orthopaedic specialists or physiatrists. They will guide you through the recovery process and help you get back to doing what you love, free from the constant discomfort of muscle pain.

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