Myofascial pain syndrome arises when your muscles develop tiny, tender knots called trigger points.
These focal areas of sustained muscle contraction slow the clearing of waste products, leading to discomfort. The postural muscles of the lower back, neck, shoulders, hips, and jaw are most commonly affected.
Trigger points are tight, irritated spots in a muscle that cause aching, spreading pain. They often come from overuse, poor posture, stress, or lack of sleep.
What they feel like
• Pressing on them creates a deep, dull ache that can travel to other areas.
• Many people notice stiffness or trouble getting comfortable at night.
Why treatment matters
• New trigger points can settle quickly, but long‑standing ones are harder to resolve.
• Treatment focuses on easing the painful spots and correcting the habits or imbalances that caused them.
What helps
• Stretching and strengthening exercises done consistently
• Staying active and managing stress
• Good hydration
• Gentle self‑massage tools (foam roller, ball, massager) if approved by your provider
