Chronic Myofascial Pain Prognosis

Treatment of individual isolated events of trigger points has been quite successful. Some people have total relief. However, others who have not had their symptoms identified and treated appropriately, quite often develop full-blown chronic myofascial pain. In these people, those little buggers just become very stubborn and some (latent) trigger points may last a lifetime despite the most appropriate care. Once the disease process is clearly defined, work can begin on how to prevent the entire cascade of events.

It is possible to bring trigger points under control with proper myofascial treatment, supervised exercise, medication, and avoidance of perpetuating factors. It is not a progressive disorder in that it does not continue to worsen once the trigger points (TrPs) are treated. Left untreated, however, the chances of their total eradication are decreased.

For help in learning to identify perpetuating factors, communicating with your physician and others, documenting, dealing with emotional and spiritual aspects of living with chronic pain, and juggling two or more of these disorders or co-existing conditions, see our book.

There is no magical, no involvement, cure for chronic myofascial pain from trigger points. Therapies and treatment are aimed at restoring normal resting muscle fiber length; and maintaining adequate muscle strength, and endurance. If you have chronic myofascial pain, you must be committed to getting the best results possible. Successful treatment of trigger points will improve your life's quality.

Refer to the weblinks and the reading corner for information on helpful self-treatment guides.