Both myofascial pain syndrome and fibromyalgia cause muscular pain. However, myofascial pain syndrome causes pain in certain areas, compared with fibromyalgia, which causes pain throughout the body.
Myofascial pain syndrome (MPS) is a condition that causes musculoskeletal pain in a particular area of the body.
Fibromyalgia causes widespread pain and tenderness in the body, as well as fatigue and sleeping difficulties.
MPS and fibromyalgia are two separate conditions, but they do share some similarities.
This article looks at the similarities and differences between both conditions, as well as causes, symptoms, treatments, and outlook for each.
According to a
Both conditions cause musculoskeletal pain. People may have MPS or fibromyalgia if they have persistent pain for more than 3 months.
Both conditions may involve central sensitization. Central sensitization is a nervous system irregularity that may contribute to chronic pain.
Central sensitization alters how the body responds to pain and may lead to people continually experiencing pain even after an injury has healed.
MPS causes localized pain, which means people only experience pain in a certain area, such as the right side of the neck or shoulder. Fibromyalgia
MPS
Trigger points are tight areas of muscle that can cause pain. When people apply pressure to a trigger point, it causes pain to radiate to another area of the body.
People with fibromyalgia have tender points, which are areas of pain that may feel very sensitive or tender to the touch. These areas are near joints but not on the joint itself.
MPS pain
Fibromyalgia
The below table looks at the similarities and differences between fibromyalgia and MPS.
| Myofascial pain syndrome | Fibromyalgia | |
| Causes | repetitive activity or overuse leading to strain on muscle fibers | may involve genetic and environmental factors, such as an existing pain condition |
| Symptoms | • localized muscle pain • trigger points that cause radiated pain • muscle stiffness | • widespread pain • fatigue • difficulty sleeping • headaches • depression and anxiety • memory and concentration problems |
| Frequency and intensity of symptoms | MPS may be acute or chronic. Acute MPS may resolve by itself or with treatment. Chronic MPS may last for | Fibromyalgia is a long lasting condition. Symptoms |
| Diagnosis | • assessment of symptoms and medical history • physical exam to feel for tight muscle areas • tests, such as imaging scans, to rule out other conditions • visual examination for abnormal posture | • assessment of symptoms and medical history • physical examination, including checking the joints to rule out other conditions • imaging tests and blood tests to rule out other conditions |
| Treatments | Treatment may focus on trigger points: • low-level light therapy • dry or wet needling, which involves inserting a needle into or around the trigger point, possibly with the addition of a steroid or numbing treatment • electrical stimulation • massage • stretching • transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) • ultrasound, to target soft tissues with sound waves | A combination of treatments that may include: • medications to relieve pain, which • regular exercise, including aerobic and muscle-strengthening exercises • stress management, such as yoga, massage, and meditation • cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to help alter how people perceive pain • improving sleep with good sleep habits • therapy or counseling for any mental health issues |
| Outlook | Acute MPS may resolve by itself or with simple treatment options. Chronic MPS may last for | Fibromyalgia is a |
This section answers some frequently asked questions about fibromyalgia and myofascial pain syndrome.
Can myofascial pain become fibromyalgia?
According to a
Can you have both myofascial pain syndrome and fibromyalgia?
According to the American Society of Anesthesiologists, it is possible for a person to have both MPS and fibromyalgia.
It is important to receive a diagnosis of both conditions and appropriate treatment for each. Both conditions
Where is the most common fibromyalgia pain?
People may experience fibromyalgia pain
- arms
- legs
- head
- chest
- back
- abdomen
- buttocks
People may experience pain in multiple areas, which may feel throbbing, burning, or aching.
MPS and fibromyalgia are both chronic pain conditions that cause musculoskeletal pain. MPS causes localized pain in certain areas, whilst fibromyalgia causes widespread pain throughout the body.
MPS may resolve with treatment, such as targeting trigger points with laser therapy, needles, or massage. Treating the underlying cause of MPS may help prevent the condition from recurring.
Fibromyalgia is a long-term condition, but treatments, such as medications, exercise, CBT, and stress management, may help people manage their symptoms.