Myofascial Pain Syndrome: Understanding Trigger Points, Pain & Management for Canadians

Myofascial pain syndrome is a chronic condition involving discomfort, sensitivity, and inflammation in the soft tissues of the body — especially muscles and the fascia that surrounds them. Pain may occur in one area or across multiple muscle groups.

A key feature of this condition is referred pain. Pain felt in one part of the body may be caused by trigger points in a different region. These trigger points are sensitive spots in tight muscle fibres that can cause pain during pressure or movement.

Why Myofascial Pain Develops

Myofascial pain can arise from:

• Muscle injuries or trauma

• Excessive strain to a muscle group, tendon, or ligament

• Repetitive motions at work or during sport

• General fatigue or stress

• Poor posture or prolonged inactivity

• Intervertebral disc irritation

• Other medical conditions that may influence pain patterns

Workplace ergonomics and physical demands play a role for many Canadians, particularly those in repetitive, industrial, or manual occupations.

Signs & Symptoms

Common symptoms include:

• Localized or regional muscle pain

• Tender or “trigger” points that hurt when pressed

• Stiffness or limited mobility in the affected region

• Pain that worsens with activity or stress

• Fatigue or sleep disruption

Some individuals also report mood changes or frustration related to chronic discomfort — a pattern seen with many long-term pain conditions.

Diagnosing Trigger Points

Trigger points are identified through physical assessment and pressure sensitivity. Clinicians may categorize them as:

• Active trigger points: cause local or referred pain

• Latent trigger points: may not hurt until pressed but can become active later

• Satellite trigger points: develop due to nearby trigger point activity

• Secondary trigger points: triggered by stress in a different muscle group

Understanding trigger point patterns is essential for effective management.

Treatment & Management Options

Management often focuses on restoring function, reducing pain, and relieving tension. Approaches can include:

• Physical therapy and stretching

• Massage therapy

• Trigger point techniques

• Stretch-and-spray methods using cooling agents

• Posture and ergonomic adjustments

• In some cases, trigger point injections or medication support

Chronic cases may require a combination of therapies, lifestyle adjustments, and support for related concerns such as sleep disruption or stress.

First Aid & Workplace Relevance

While myofascial pain is not an emergency condition, first aid awareness and workplace safety training support Canadians who work in physically demanding roles or repetitive environments. Understanding early strain signals helps prevent long-term pain patterns.

Organizations often pair first aid learning through St. Mark James Training with CPR/AED and workplace safety education to keep teams informed about injury prevention and safe movement techniques.

Educational Disclaimer

This article provides public education for Canadians and is not a diagnostic guide or treatment plan. If pain persists, worsens, or limits daily activities, consult a healthcare provider for assessment and care options.